Australia build on huge lead against Sri Lanka

HOBART, Australia, Nov 18 (Reuters) Australia led Sri Lanka by 407 runs with nine second innings wickets in hand after resisting the temptation to enforce the follow-on on the third day of the second test at Bellerive Oval today.

The Australians had the option of making the Sri Lankans bat again after bowling them out for 246 -- 296 runs behind the home side's first innings total of 542 for five declared -- but decided to give their bowlers a rest and increase their lead before a second declaration tomorrow.

When stumps were drawn, Australia were 111-1 with opener Phil Jaques unbeaten on 53 and captain Ricky Ponting seven not out.

The Sri Lankan skipper Mahela Jayawardene scored a superb 104 in his team's innings and was well supported by Kumar Sangakkara, who made 57, but the rest of the batting crumbled under the relentless pressure of Australia's bowling attack.

Paceman Brett Lee was the pick of the bowlers with 4-82.

REUTERS TB HT1304