Australia have for the first time named two Test cricket vice-captains -- all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood -- as they look to move on from a major cheating scandal.

The pair were chosen to back up captain Tim Paine via an unprecedented vote by team members and a final decision made by a panel that included coach Justin Langer and selector Trevor Hohns, Cricket Australia said.

"We believe the new leadership model will best support the captain," Hohns said of the decision to have more than one Test vice-captain for the first time.

"It is a successful model used across various sporting codes around the world.

"Our vision is to create great cricketers and great people, and we are extremely fortunate to have such terrific young men," Hohns said.

Marsh, aged 26, will act as sole vice-captain behind Paine during the two-Test series against Pakistan in Dubai beginning on October 7 because Hazlewood, aged 27, is sidelined by injury.

It will be Australia's first Test tour since the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town which led to one-year suspensions being imposed on captain Steve Smith and his deputy, David Warner, who was also banned from ever holding another leadership position.

Hohns indicated the decision to name vice-captains was in part to avoid naming a single person being seen as a likely successor to Paine, who took over from Smith following the scandal when sandpaper was used to alter the condition of the ball.

"It was not a process designed to find the next Australian Test captain, but to find two vice-captains who will support and help drive the team's goals and objectives," he said.

Since the South Africa debacle, Cricket Australia has launched a number of internal reviews aimed at creating a more respectful culture and moving away from the win-at-all-costs mentality blamed for the explosive ball-tampering row.

Australia have for the first time named two Test cricket vice-captains -- all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood -- as they look to move on from a major cheating scandal.

Australia have for the first time named two Test cricket vice-captains -- all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood -- as they look to move on from a major cheating scandal. The pair were chosen to back up captain Tim Paine via an unprecedented vote by team members and a final decision made by a panel that included coach Justin Langer and selector Trevor Hohns, Cricket Australia said. "We believe the new leadership model will best support the captain," Hohns said of the decision to have more than one Test vice-captain for the first time. "It is a successful model used across various sporting codes around the world. "Our vision is to create great cricketers and great people, and we are extremely fortunate to have such terrific young men," Hohns said. Marsh, aged 26, will act as sole vice-captain behind Paine during the two-Test series against Pakistan in Dubai beginning on October 7 because Hazlewood, aged 27, is sidelined by injury. It will be Australia's first Test tour since the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town which led to one-year suspensions being imposed on captain Steve Smith and his deputy, David Warner, who was also banned from ever holding another leadership position. Hohns indicated the decision to name vice-captains was in part to avoid naming a single person being seen as a likely successor to Paine, who took over from Smith following the scandal when sandpaper was used to alter the condition of the ball. "It was not a process designed to find the next Australian Test captain, but to find two vice-captains who will support and help drive the team's goals and objectives," he said. Since the South Africa debacle, Cricket Australia has launched a number of internal reviews aimed at creating a more respectful culture and moving away from the win-at-all-costs mentality blamed for the explosive ball-tampering row.

Australia name two Test vice-captains for first time

Usman Khawaja scored 75 runs to lead an Australia fightback on the third day of the second test against South Africa at St George&#39;s Park, but succumbed just before close of play after seeing the tourists cancel out a first innings deficit.

Australia will take a 41-run led into the fourth day after finishing Sunday&#39;s play at 180 for five wickets.

Khawaja and Mitchell Marsh put together a 87-run partnership for the fifth wicket before Khawaja, whose place in the team has been under threat because of a lack of form, was trapped leg before wicket by Kagiso Rabada in the second last over of the day.

It was a blow to the tourists who had been showing strong resistance after teetering at 86-4 just after tea.

Marsh played a solid supporting role to be 39 not out at the end of the day. He will resume on Monday with Tim Paine, who has five runs to his name.

Australia lost three wickets in the second session after lunch, including that of captain Steve Smith, and then Shaun Marsh with the second ball of the last session before Khawaja dashed home hopes of rattling through the Australian batting line-up.

Smith, ranked the world&#39;s top test batsmen, went cheaply as he was caught behind for 11 after he got a slight edge to the spin bowling of Keshav Maharaj while David Warner, also key to their hopes, was bowled by Kagiso Rabada for 13.

South Africa had a first innings lead of 139 after being bowled out for 382 just before lunch.

AB de Villiers notched up his 22nd test century in scoring an unbeaten 126 in a busy morning session to help South Africa into a good lead.

He had not scored a ton in his last 13 tests but featured in an 84-run partnership with Vernon Philander (36) for the eighth wicket and further 58 with Keshav Maharaj, who swatted at the Australian bowling to score 30 off 24 balls.

Australia lead 1-0 in the four-test series.

Usman Khawaja scored 75 runs to lead an Australia fightback on the third day of the second test against South Africa at St George's Park, but succumbed just before close of play after seeing the tourists cancel out a first innings deficit

Usman Khawaja scored 75 runs to lead an Australia fightback on the third day of the second test against South Africa at St George's Park, but succumbed just before close of play after seeing the tourists cancel out a first innings deficit. Australia will take a 41-run led into the fourth day after finishing Sunday's play at 180 for five wickets. Khawaja and Mitchell Marsh put together a 87-run partnership for the fifth wicket before Khawaja, whose place in the team has been under threat because of a lack of form, was trapped leg before wicket by Kagiso Rabada in the second last over of the day. It was a blow to the tourists who had been showing strong resistance after teetering at 86-4 just after tea. Marsh played a solid supporting role to be 39 not out at the end of the day. He will resume on Monday with Tim Paine, who has five runs to his name. Australia lost three wickets in the second session after lunch, including that of captain Steve Smith, and then Shaun Marsh with the second ball of the last session before Khawaja dashed home hopes of rattling through the Australian batting line-up. Smith, ranked the world's top test batsmen, went cheaply as he was caught behind for 11 after he got a slight edge to the spin bowling of Keshav Maharaj while David Warner, also key to their hopes, was bowled by Kagiso Rabada for 13. South Africa had a first innings lead of 139 after being bowled out for 382 just before lunch. AB de Villiers notched up his 22nd test century in scoring an unbeaten 126 in a busy morning session to help South Africa into a good lead. He had not scored a ton in his last 13 tests but featured in an 84-run partnership with Vernon Philander (36) for the eighth wicket and further 58 with Keshav Maharaj, who swatted at the Australian bowling to score 30 off 24 balls. Australia lead 1-0 in the four-test series.

South Africa vs Australia, 2nd Test: Khawaja leads fightback but Proteas strike late

Australian skipper Steve Smith gave one of the hilarious moments of the summer by screaming in panic at Shaun and Mitchell Marsh&nbsp;to get back in their creases.

Marsh hit a ball punched a drive through cover off to bring up his second Test match hundred on day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

During a second run, Mitch grabbed Shaun for a mid-pitch hug, forgetting that completing the run and reaching their respective crease was required

But, it was the response of captain Smith that stole the show for viewers.

Smith sitting with teammates in the stands, rose for a standing ovation for Mitch, before going blank in the face as the potential for a run out became clear.

The worried Smith had put his hands on his head and appeared to mouth something as teammates around laughed hysterically at their animated captain. 
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Social media went into overdrive after Smith&#39;s footage became viral, with many agreeing it was a classic moment of the summer. &nbsp;

Mitch grabbed Shaun for a mid-pitch hug, forgetting that completing the run and reaching their respective creases was required

Australian skipper Steve Smith gave one of the hilarious moments of the summer by screaming in panic at Shaun and Mitchell Marsh to get back in their creases. Marsh hit a ball punched a drive through cover off to bring up his second Test match hundred on day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground. During a second run, Mitch grabbed Shaun for a mid-pitch hug, forgetting that completing the run and reaching their respective crease was required But, it was the response of captain Smith that stole the show for viewers. Smith sitting with teammates in the stands, rose for a standing ovation for Mitch, before going blank in the face as the potential for a run out became clear. The worried Smith had put his hands on his head and appeared to mouth something as teammates around laughed hysterically at their animated captain. Steve Smith's reaction ???????? #Ashes pic.twitter.com/C3uIDPwver — cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) January 7, 2018 × Social media went into overdrive after Smith's footage became viral, with many agreeing it was a classic moment of the summer.

Steve Smith's reaction to Mitchell Marsh's century is the best thing in the Ashes so far

Australian skipper Steve Smith&#39;s century took Australia to safety as the fourth test match ended in a draw at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday

Tormenting England, Smith displayed phenomenal batting and scored unbeaten 102 runs off 275-balls, taking Australia&nbsp;to 263 for four and a lead of 99 runs before the captains called it off midway through the final session.

Standing shoulder to shoulder with his captain, Mitchell Marsh scored 29 from 166 balls to shut down England&#39;s hope of a consolation win in the five test match series.

England had a hope of victory when David Warner and Shaun Marsh fell in the space of six runs to leave Australia 178-4, only 14 ahead.

Given the conditions and the pitch, this was England&#39;s best opportunity to get a win in the series. &nbsp;

Alastair Cook&#39;s return to form with 244 runs did not bear fruit for the team, as the tourists will have to head into the fifth and final test 3-0 down in the series.

With the draw, England ended an eight-match losing streak, while&nbsp;Australia&#39;s chances of earning a second successive home whitewash, and third in 11 years are also over.

Mitchell Marsh scored 29 from 166 balls to shut down England's hope of a consolation win in the series

Australian skipper Steve Smith's century took Australia to safety as the fourth test match ended in a draw at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday Tormenting England, Smith displayed phenomenal batting and scored unbeaten 102 runs off 275-balls, taking Australia to 263 for four and a lead of 99 runs before the captains called it off midway through the final session. Standing shoulder to shoulder with his captain, Mitchell Marsh scored 29 from 166 balls to shut down England's hope of a consolation win in the five test match series. England had a hope of victory when David Warner and Shaun Marsh fell in the space of six runs to leave Australia 178-4, only 14 ahead. Given the conditions and the pitch, this was England's best opportunity to get a win in the series. Alastair Cook's return to form with 244 runs did not bear fruit for the team, as the tourists will have to head into the fifth and final test 3-0 down in the series. With the draw, England ended an eight-match losing streak, while Australia's chances of earning a second successive home whitewash, and third in 11 years are also over.

Ton-up Smith takes Australia to safety as fourth test ends in draw

Australian captain Steve Smith has paid tribute to some bold selections after his team regained the Ashes in Perth today.

The home team took an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the series with an innings victory over the English at the WACA Ground, despite rain delays and a damaged pitch.

Smith said the comprehensive result, which has Australia on track for its third Ashes whitewash in four home series, was vindication for the national selectors for making some imaginative selections.

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was not even keeping for his state side Tasmania when he was named for the first Test at the Gabba, while the recall of 34-year-old Shaun Marsh raised plenty of eyebrows.

Then batsman Peter Handscomb was dropped for the third Test, with underachieving all-rounder Mitchell Marsh getting a surprise recall.

Paine has responded with polished performances behind the stumps and 130 runs at 43.33, while Shaun Marsh produced a crucial century in the second Test in Adelaide and has 224 runs at 74.66.

Mitchell Marsh took his chance in the third Test, notching his maiden Test century in making 181.

&quot;I thought they were really good selections,&quot; Smith said.

&quot;Painey has been mentioned as the best keeper in the country for a long period of time and the way he has kept has been exceptional.

&quot;The way he has batted has been exceptional as well, we have had some very valuable runs from him at seven.

&quot;Shaun Marsh as well, he&#39;s come in and done a terrific job.&quot; 
 
Smith credited his bowling attack&#39;s firepower for providing the difference between the sides, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins all capable of bowling considerably quicker than their English counterparts.

He said the success of the trio was reward for extended planning to ensure they were at their prime for the Ashes.

&quot;Here in Australia it certainly makes a difference on the flatter tracks where there isn&#39;t much sideways movement, that extra air speed can make a big difference,&quot; he said.

&quot;We&#39;ve worked really hard to ensure we had these three big quicks were on the park and ready for this series.

&quot;A couple of them skipped the one-day series in India as we knew what was coming up, we were preparing for this series and we wanted the big three on the park to do what they&#39;ve done the last three Test matches.&quot;

Pace bowler Starc battled a bruised heel in Perth, but the captain said he was keen to play in Melbourne.

&quot;I just saw him and he just said &#39;I&#39;m playing&#39;,&quot; Smith said.

&quot;Whether he has a choice in the matter I am not sure but he wants to play.&quot;

Australian have named an unchanged side for the Boxing Day Test, starting on December 26 at the MCG

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was not even keeping for his state side when he was named for the first Ashes Test.

Australian captain Steve Smith has paid tribute to some bold selections after his team regained the Ashes in Perth today. The home team took an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the series with an innings victory over the English at the WACA Ground, despite rain delays and a damaged pitch. Smith said the comprehensive result, which has Australia on track for its third Ashes whitewash in four home series, was vindication for the national selectors for making some imaginative selections. Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was not even keeping for his state side Tasmania when he was named for the first Test at the Gabba, while the recall of 34-year-old Shaun Marsh raised plenty of eyebrows. Then batsman Peter Handscomb was dropped for the third Test, with underachieving all-rounder Mitchell Marsh getting a surprise recall. Paine has responded with polished performances behind the stumps and 130 runs at 43.33, while Shaun Marsh produced a crucial century in the second Test in Adelaide and has 224 runs at 74.66. Mitchell Marsh took his chance in the third Test, notching his maiden Test century in making 181. "I thought they were really good selections," Smith said. "Painey has been mentioned as the best keeper in the country for a long period of time and the way he has kept has been exceptional. "The way he has batted has been exceptional as well, we have had some very valuable runs from him at seven. "Shaun Marsh as well, he's come in and done a terrific job." Smith credited his bowling attack's firepower for providing the difference between the sides, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins all capable of bowling considerably quicker than their English counterparts. He said the success of the trio was reward for extended planning to ensure they were at their prime for the Ashes. "Here in Australia it certainly makes a difference on the flatter tracks where there isn't much sideways movement, that extra air speed can make a big difference," he said. "We've worked really hard to ensure we had these three big quicks were on the park and ready for this series. "A couple of them skipped the one-day series in India as we knew what was coming up, we were preparing for this series and we wanted the big three on the park to do what they've done the last three Test matches." Pace bowler Starc battled a bruised heel in Perth, but the captain said he was keen to play in Melbourne. "I just saw him and he just said 'I'm playing'," Smith said. "Whether he has a choice in the matter I am not sure but he wants to play." Australian have named an unchanged side for the Boxing Day Test, starting on December 26 at the MCG

Australian skipper Smith praises bold selectors after Ashes win

With his chanceless double-century dominating day three of the third Ashes test on Saturday, Australia captain Steve Smith proved once again that bowlers&#39; plans are something for other batsmen to worry about.

Smith strode off the WACA with an unbeaten 229, his highest test score anchoring an epic 301-run stand with Mitchell Marsh (181 not out) and driving Australia to 549 for four at stumps and a 146-run lead.

Having scored an unbeaten 141 in the series-opening win at the Gabba, Smith&#39;s masterclass put England on the brink of another Ashes surrender with two matches to spare in the five-test series.

Seven English players rolled over their arm on day three at the WACA. None looked remotely capable of dismissing the skipper.

&quot;I told the boys when I got back in last night (on day two) that I was just getting started,&quot; Smith said before exiting the ground to raucous applause.

&quot;Luckily it came off today and (we&#39;re) getting ourselves in a nice position.&quot;

For England captain Joe Root and his senior bowlers, there was a horrible feeling of deja vu at the WACA, where Smith scored a century in the corresponding test four years ago.

Alastair Cook&#39;s team crashed out in that match, handing over the urn before going on to suffer the humiliating whitewash.

England assistant coach Paul Farbrace admitted England had no answers for Smith, their bowlers too slow to trouble him on a flat WACA wicket.

&quot;(He&#39;s) in the form of his life and playing fantastically,&quot; said Farbrace.

As in Brisbane, Smith pulled his side from a position of uncertainty at 55 for two on day two, and he finished day three with a clutch of fresh honours.

He became the second fastest batsman to score 14 hundreds as captain, the 29 tests he took bettered only by Don Bradman&#39;s 24.

Smith also became the second player after former Australia opener Matthew Hayden to score 1,000 test runs in a calendar year four times in succession.

He worked off-spinner Moeen Ali to mid-on for a single to bring up his second test double-hundred after torching England for 215 at Lord&#39;s in the 2015 Ashes.

He offered no chances during his 390-ball vigil, with three outside edges failing to carry to the slip cordon.

With frustrations boiling over, England reviewed twice to try to remove him lbw.

But the first showed the ball sliding well down the leg side and the second was cancelled by paceman James Anderson overstepping his mark.

There was nothing England could do to remove him.

&ldquo;I love scoring big runs for my country,&quot; Smith said simply.

&ldquo;We wanted to be out in the middle and just keep batting.&quot;

 
&nbsp;

Smith strode off the WACA with an unbeaten 229, his highest test score anchoring an epic 301-run stand with Mitchell Marsh (181 not out) and driving Australia to 549 for four at stumps and a 146-run lead

With his chanceless double-century dominating day three of the third Ashes test on Saturday, Australia captain Steve Smith proved once again that bowlers' plans are something for other batsmen to worry about. Smith strode off the WACA with an unbeaten 229, his highest test score anchoring an epic 301-run stand with Mitchell Marsh (181 not out) and driving Australia to 549 for four at stumps and a 146-run lead. Having scored an unbeaten 141 in the series-opening win at the Gabba, Smith's masterclass put England on the brink of another Ashes surrender with two matches to spare in the five-test series. Seven English players rolled over their arm on day three at the WACA. None looked remotely capable of dismissing the skipper. "I told the boys when I got back in last night (on day two) that I was just getting started," Smith said before exiting the ground to raucous applause. "Luckily it came off today and (we're) getting ourselves in a nice position." For England captain Joe Root and his senior bowlers, there was a horrible feeling of deja vu at the WACA, where Smith scored a century in the corresponding test four years ago. Alastair Cook's team crashed out in that match, handing over the urn before going on to suffer the humiliating whitewash. England assistant coach Paul Farbrace admitted England had no answers for Smith, their bowlers too slow to trouble him on a flat WACA wicket. "(He's) in the form of his life and playing fantastically," said Farbrace. As in Brisbane, Smith pulled his side from a position of uncertainty at 55 for two on day two, and he finished day three with a clutch of fresh honours. He became the second fastest batsman to score 14 hundreds as captain, the 29 tests he took bettered only by Don Bradman's 24. Smith also became the second player after former Australia opener Matthew Hayden to score 1,000 test runs in a calendar year four times in succession. He worked off-spinner Moeen Ali to mid-on for a single to bring up his second test double-hundred after torching England for 215 at Lord's in the 2015 Ashes. He offered no chances during his 390-ball vigil, with three outside edges failing to carry to the slip cordon. With frustrations boiling over, England reviewed twice to try to remove him lbw. But the first showed the ball sliding well down the leg side and the second was cancelled by paceman James Anderson overstepping his mark. There was nothing England could do to remove him. “I love scoring big runs for my country," Smith said simply. “We wanted to be out in the middle and just keep batting."

Steve Smith double-century leaves England bereft of answers

Australian skipper Steve Smith on Wednesday said they might bring in all-rounder Mitchell Marsh for the third Ashes test against England, adding the team will not be named until the toss on Thursday morning.

The hosts, 2-0 up in the five-match series, could reclaim the coveted urn in Perth.&nbsp;

Smith said that Marsh would be included, probably for Peter Handscomb, if the WACA track was not quick enough.

&quot;We`re going to have another look at the wicket in the morning and decide if we need that extra bowling option. The stats suggest over the last couple of years the bowlers have had a pretty heavy workload on this wicket, so we&#39;re probably leaning that way at the moment.&quot; Smith told a news conference.

26-year-old Marsh underwent a shoulder surgery earlier this year, returned for Western Australia in October and smashed a total of 680 runs in all forms of cricket at an average of nearly 68.

Meanwhile, Smith hoped that the wicket would be different from the drawn 2015 test against New Zealand when 1,672 runs were scored over five days.

Marsh would be included, probably for Peter Handscomb, if the WACA track was not quick enough.

Australian skipper Steve Smith on Wednesday said they might bring in all-rounder Mitchell Marsh for the third Ashes test against England, adding the team will not be named until the toss on Thursday morning. The hosts, 2-0 up in the five-match series, could reclaim the coveted urn in Perth. Smith said that Marsh would be included, probably for Peter Handscomb, if the WACA track was not quick enough. "We`re going to have another look at the wicket in the morning and decide if we need that extra bowling option. The stats suggest over the last couple of years the bowlers have had a pretty heavy workload on this wicket, so we're probably leaning that way at the moment." Smith told a news conference. 26-year-old Marsh underwent a shoulder surgery earlier this year, returned for Western Australia in October and smashed a total of 680 runs in all forms of cricket at an average of nearly 68. Meanwhile, Smith hoped that the wicket would be different from the drawn 2015 test against New Zealand when 1,672 runs were scored over five days.

Ashes 2017: Australia's Mitchell Marsh may replace Peter Handscomb in 3rd test against England

Veteran spinner Rangana Herath grabbed a five-wicket haul to help Sri Lanka stun top-ranked Australia by 106 runs on the fifth and final day of the first Test in Pallekele on Saturday. 
 
Australia, chasing a challenging 268 for victory, were bundled out for 161 before tea to trail the three-match series 0-1. Steven Smith top-scored with 55. 
 
The left-arm spinner sent back Adam Voges and Mitchell Marsh before dealing the biggest blow when he trapped Steven Smith leg-before, ending the Australian captain&#39;s dogged resistance. 
 
Left-arm chinaman bowler Lakshan Sandakan chipped in with the wicket of Mitchell Starc on the stroke of lunch under darkening skies in Kandy. 
 
Sri Lankan batsman Kusal Mendis set up the win for the hosts with his superb maiden ton in his team&#39;s second innings after the home side overcame an 86-run deficit. 
 
The weather-hit first match of the three-test series got off to another delayed start following steady morning drizzle and Sri Lanka attacked with spin from both ends to unsettle the visitors, who have looked unconvincing against the slow bowlers. 
 
Herath (4-49) had proved a thorn in Australia&#39;s side with the ball as well as the bat in this match and the stocky spinner took a return catch to send back Voges (12) after Australia resumed what promised to be an intriguing final day on 83-3. 
 
Marsh (25) hit three boundaries before Herath struck him on the pad and a convinced home captain Angelo Mathews successfully reviewed the original not-out decision to send back the batsman. Smith (55), however, battled on, his doggedness underlined by the lone boundary he hit in his 17th test fifty, which was also only the second 50-plus score in the bowler-dominated contest. 
 
In the over prior to his dismissal, Smith was adjudged caught behind off Sandakan but the Australian captain reviewed the decision and managed to prolong his stay when replays showed the ball had clearly missed the edge of his bat. 
 
Nine balls later Herath trapped him leg before and this time, Smith was unable to reverse the decision with another review. 
 
(AFP, Reuters)

The left-arm spinner sent back Adam Voges and Mitchell Marsh before dealing the biggest blow when he trapped Steven Smith leg-before

Veteran spinner Rangana Herath grabbed a five-wicket haul to help Sri Lanka stun top-ranked Australia by 106 runs on the fifth and final day of the first Test in Pallekele on Saturday. Australia, chasing a challenging 268 for victory, were bundled out for 161 before tea to trail the three-match series 0-1. Steven Smith top-scored with 55. The left-arm spinner sent back Adam Voges and Mitchell Marsh before dealing the biggest blow when he trapped Steven Smith leg-before, ending the Australian captain's dogged resistance. Left-arm chinaman bowler Lakshan Sandakan chipped in with the wicket of Mitchell Starc on the stroke of lunch under darkening skies in Kandy. Sri Lankan batsman Kusal Mendis set up the win for the hosts with his superb maiden ton in his team's second innings after the home side overcame an 86-run deficit. The weather-hit first match of the three-test series got off to another delayed start following steady morning drizzle and Sri Lanka attacked with spin from both ends to unsettle the visitors, who have looked unconvincing against the slow bowlers. Herath (4-49) had proved a thorn in Australia's side with the ball as well as the bat in this match and the stocky spinner took a return catch to send back Voges (12) after Australia resumed what promised to be an intriguing final day on 83-3. Marsh (25) hit three boundaries before Herath struck him on the pad and a convinced home captain Angelo Mathews successfully reviewed the original not-out decision to send back the batsman. Smith (55), however, battled on, his doggedness underlined by the lone boundary he hit in his 17th test fifty, which was also only the second 50-plus score in the bowler-dominated contest. In the over prior to his dismissal, Smith was adjudged caught behind off Sandakan but the Australian captain reviewed the decision and managed to prolong his stay when replays showed the ball had clearly missed the edge of his bat. Nine balls later Herath trapped him leg before and this time, Smith was unable to reverse the decision with another review. (AFP, Reuters)

Sri Lanka wins Pallekele test by 106 runs against Australia

Australia dismissed Sri Lankan opener Kusal Perera cheaply after building up an 86-run first innings lead over their hosts as they took firm command today of a low-scoring Test in Pallekele. 
 
Perera fell to the last ball of the day, with the umpires once again forced to call a premature halt to proceedings following a downpour at the picturesque ground on the outskirts of Kandy. 
 
Australia were all out for 203 in reply to Sri Lanka&#39;s first innings total of 117, with spinner Lakshan Sandakan taking four wickets on his debut.&nbsp; 
 
The early loss of Perera on the second day of the first Test was another bitter blow for the struggling hosts. Perera fell for just four when he was lbw to paceman Mitchell Starc, leaving Sri Lanka wobbling on six for one at close of play. 
 
The downpour initially prompted the umpires to call an early tea break, but they were later forced to abandon play early for the second day running.&nbsp; 
 
Veteran Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Rangana Herath and the 25-year-old rookie Sandakan had earlier taken four wickets apiece as the Australian batsman also struggled to cope with a turning pitch. 
 
Adam Voges top-scored for the Australians with 47, meaning no player from either side managed to score a half-century in the first innings. 
 
As the pitch is showing no sign of respite, the Australians&#39; first innings lead could well prove decisive as they try to cement their position as Test cricket&#39;s number one side. 
 
The 38-year-old Herath, who has hinted that he may soon retire from Test cricket, was the pick of the bowlers and was unlucky not to record a five-wicket haul. 
 
He dismissed both overnight batsmen, skipper Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja, in successive overs and had a third wicket in the morning session when wicketkeeper Peter Nevill was caught at mid-on. 
 
After lunch, wicketkeeper Perera dropped a chance off Josh Hazlewood, denying Herath what would have been his 24th five-wicket haul. 
 
Australia scored at less than two runs per over off Herath as his 25 overs went for only 49. While Herath was providing captain Angelo Mathews both the attacking and containing options, Sandakan ran through the lower order to finish with four for 58. 
 
Seamer Nuwan Pradeep finished with two wickets, including that of the resolute Voges who was brilliantly caught by Kusal Mendis at gully. Voges, who faced 115 deliveries and hit three fours, added 60 for the fifth wicket with Mitchell Marsh, who was among Sandakan&#39;s victims. 
 
(AFP)

The early loss of opener Kusal Perera on the second day of the first Test was a bitter blow for struggling hosts Sri Lanka

Australia dismissed Sri Lankan opener Kusal Perera cheaply after building up an 86-run first innings lead over their hosts as they took firm command today of a low-scoring Test in Pallekele. Perera fell to the last ball of the day, with the umpires once again forced to call a premature halt to proceedings following a downpour at the picturesque ground on the outskirts of Kandy. Australia were all out for 203 in reply to Sri Lanka's first innings total of 117, with spinner Lakshan Sandakan taking four wickets on his debut. The early loss of Perera on the second day of the first Test was another bitter blow for the struggling hosts. Perera fell for just four when he was lbw to paceman Mitchell Starc, leaving Sri Lanka wobbling on six for one at close of play. The downpour initially prompted the umpires to call an early tea break, but they were later forced to abandon play early for the second day running. Veteran Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Rangana Herath and the 25-year-old rookie Sandakan had earlier taken four wickets apiece as the Australian batsman also struggled to cope with a turning pitch. Adam Voges top-scored for the Australians with 47, meaning no player from either side managed to score a half-century in the first innings. As the pitch is showing no sign of respite, the Australians' first innings lead could well prove decisive as they try to cement their position as Test cricket's number one side. The 38-year-old Herath, who has hinted that he may soon retire from Test cricket, was the pick of the bowlers and was unlucky not to record a five-wicket haul. He dismissed both overnight batsmen, skipper Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja, in successive overs and had a third wicket in the morning session when wicketkeeper Peter Nevill was caught at mid-on. After lunch, wicketkeeper Perera dropped a chance off Josh Hazlewood, denying Herath what would have been his 24th five-wicket haul. Australia scored at less than two runs per over off Herath as his 25 overs went for only 49. While Herath was providing captain Angelo Mathews both the attacking and containing options, Sandakan ran through the lower order to finish with four for 58. Seamer Nuwan Pradeep finished with two wickets, including that of the resolute Voges who was brilliantly caught by Kusal Mendis at gully. Voges, who faced 115 deliveries and hit three fours, added 60 for the fifth wicket with Mitchell Marsh, who was among Sandakan's victims. (AFP)

Pallekele test: Australia builds 84-run lead over hosts Sri Lanka

Australia qualified for the final of the triangular one-day international series (ODI) with a six-wicket win over West Indies in Barbados on Tuesday. 
 
West Indies were sent in to bat and compiled 282 for eight off their 50 overs, with Marlon Samuels scoring 125 off 134 balls for his maiden ODI century against Australia. 
 
Wicketkeeper-batsman Denesh Ramdin chipped in with a brisk 91 in a 192-run fourth wicket stand as the hosts roared back after losing three early wickets. 
 
Australia made a wobbly start in reply, with openers Aaron Finch (16) and Usman Khawaja (17) going early. But, the visitors settled in as play wore on and chased down the target with eight balls to spare, Glenn Maxwell (46 not out) securing victory with a devastating late burst. 
 
The result means the winner of Friday&#39;s match between West Indies and South Africa will advance to Sunday&#39;s final against Australia at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown. 
 
While captain Steve Smith (78) top-scored for Australia with his third successive ODI half-century, the batting form of team mates Mitchell Marsh (79 not out) and Maxwell pleased the skipper. Maxwell&#39;s innings included a magnificent switch-hit sweep for six over cover-point off spinner Sunil Narine in the 46th over. In the next over he bludgeoned 14 runs off three balls off Carlos Brathwaite to effectively seal victory. 
 
&quot;An innings like that, I was speechless at the other end,&quot; said Marsh in an on-field interview. &quot;Maxie has a lot of doubters but an innings like today shows why he&#39;s such a pivotal part of the team.&quot; 
 
Smith, who downplayed a question about apparent on-field sledging, had plenty of praise to share around. 
 
&quot;I thought Mitchell Marsh played a very mature innings and Glenn Maxwell finished off nicely with a few of his trademark reverse slog sweeps, or whatever they&#39;re called,&quot; he said. 
 
West Indies captain Jason Holder limped off with a strained left hamstring after bowling just two overs and is doubtful for Friday&#39;s showdown against South Africa. 
 
(Reuters)

West Indies were sent in to bat and notched up 282 for eight, with Marlon Samuels scoring his maiden ODI century against Australia

Australia qualified for the final of the triangular one-day international series (ODI) with a six-wicket win over West Indies in Barbados on Tuesday. West Indies were sent in to bat and compiled 282 for eight off their 50 overs, with Marlon Samuels scoring 125 off 134 balls for his maiden ODI century against Australia. Wicketkeeper-batsman Denesh Ramdin chipped in with a brisk 91 in a 192-run fourth wicket stand as the hosts roared back after losing three early wickets. Australia made a wobbly start in reply, with openers Aaron Finch (16) and Usman Khawaja (17) going early. But, the visitors settled in as play wore on and chased down the target with eight balls to spare, Glenn Maxwell (46 not out) securing victory with a devastating late burst. The result means the winner of Friday's match between West Indies and South Africa will advance to Sunday's final against Australia at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown. While captain Steve Smith (78) top-scored for Australia with his third successive ODI half-century, the batting form of team mates Mitchell Marsh (79 not out) and Maxwell pleased the skipper. Maxwell's innings included a magnificent switch-hit sweep for six over cover-point off spinner Sunil Narine in the 46th over. In the next over he bludgeoned 14 runs off three balls off Carlos Brathwaite to effectively seal victory. "An innings like that, I was speechless at the other end," said Marsh in an on-field interview. "Maxie has a lot of doubters but an innings like today shows why he's such a pivotal part of the team." Smith, who downplayed a question about apparent on-field sledging, had plenty of praise to share around. "I thought Mitchell Marsh played a very mature innings and Glenn Maxwell finished off nicely with a few of his trademark reverse slog sweeps, or whatever they're called," he said. West Indies captain Jason Holder limped off with a strained left hamstring after bowling just two overs and is doubtful for Friday's showdown against South Africa. (Reuters)

Australia beat Windies to reach ODI tri-series final

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