Sangakkara century helps Sri Lanka post target of 119

WELLINGTON, Dec 9 (Reuters) New Zealand need 119 runs in their second innings to win the first test in Christchurch after Sri Lanka were dismissed for 170 on the third morning at Jade Stadium today.

Resuming on their overnight 125 for eight, Sri Lanka lost paceman Lasith Malinga for a 28-ball duck and Muttiah Muralitharan run out for eight while Kumar Sangakkara finished on 100 not out, his 11th century in tests. Malinga's vigil was ended when he was caught behind by Brendon McCullum to earn James Franklin his second wicket.

The innings ended in controversial manner when Muralitharan was run out by McCullum after completing the single that earned Sangakkara his century.

Umpire Brian Jerling deemed the ball to still be alive when the off-spinner went to congratulate his team mate and he was given run out when McCullum broke the stumps to the consternation of the Sri Lankan duo.

Sangakkara had resumed on 63 not out while Shane Bond finished with the pick of the bowling figures with 4-63.

New Zealand were dismissed for 206 on Friday in response to Sri Lanka's opening 154.

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