Tharanga's maiden century lifts Sri Lanka

BOGRA, Bangladesh, Mar 9 (Reuters) Opener Upul Tharanga struck his maiden test century as Sri Lanka reached 302 for eight at the close of play on the second day of the second and final test against Bangladesh today.

Tharanga was unbeaten on 160 with Lasith Malinga 12 not out as Sri Lanka took a lead of 68 runs after the hosts had notched 234 in their first innings.

Tharanga hit two sixes and 19 fours from 297 deliveries.

The opener helped spark a recovery after Sri Lanka, who resumed on 25 for 2, were reduced to 43 for four after two quick wickets in the opening session from Shahadat Hossein.

Tharanga, who needed 178 balls to reach three figures, then added 124 for the fifth wicket with skipper Mahela Jayawardene, who fell to Mohammad Ashraful one run short of his half-century.

The opener compiled 65 with Tillakaratne Dilshan (33), who was bowled by Mohammad Rafique before Enamul Haque claimed two quick wickets late in the day to give Bangladesh a lift before stumps.

On the first day, Muttiah Muralitharan took 5-79 as Bangladesh were dismissed for 234. Sri Lanka won the first test in Chittagong by eight wickets.

REUTERS AY BS1657