Half-centuries from Phil Hughes and Michael Clarke helped put Australia in control against Sri Lanka after the opening day of the first Test match in Hobart.
Hughes hit 86 while Clarke remained at the crease on 70 at the close of play as Australia scored 299-4.
Australian opener David Warner had got his side off to a solid start with a half-century before lunch but a mix-up cost him his wicket and he was run out for 57.
Warner's contribution helped Australia reach lunch on 97-2, and they accelerated after lunch through Hughes and Shane Watson before Watson was dismissed for 30 off the bowling of Chanaka Welegedara.
Hughes remained at the crease as Australia reached tea on 193-3, but Welegedara struck again just after the restart to bowl Hughes out for 86 and deny him a fourth Test match century.
That wicket introduced Michael Hussey to the action and he acted as a perfect foil for Clarke to record his half-century.
They brought up their 100 partnership with one ball remaining of the day and they will be looking to post a formidable target against the tourists when day two commences tomorrow morning.
