Mathews aids Sri Lanka recovery

Angelo Mathews' late burst helped Sri Lanka to a formidable 286 for five in the third one-day international against India in Colombo.

Mathews struck 71 off 57 balls to build on the foundations laid by Kumar Sangakkara and captain Mahela Jayawardene - both of whom made half-centuries - after Sri Lanka had collapsed to 20 for three.

The two veteran batsmen put on a stand of 121 for the fourth wicket while Mathews and Jeevan Mendis added an unbroken 104 for the sixth wicket as the hosts look to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka were in trouble when Zaheer Khan bowled Tillakaratne Dilshan and had Upul Tharanga caught behind while Dinesh Chandimal was trapped in front by Irfan Pathan.

Sangakkara and Jayawardene came to the hosts' rescue once again, combining as they have done on several occasions over the years.

They saw their side out of trouble although neither batsman accelerated before Jayawardene fell for 65, out lbw to Rahul Sharma, while Sangakkara was caught by Virat Kohli at point off Ashok Dinda having made 73.

But Mathews and Mendis came together at the end and put India's bowling to the sword, with the former striking five fours and a six in an impressive innings, with the latter contributing 45 not out off 40 balls.

Zaheer was easily the pick of the bowlers with two for 39 from his 10 overs but Dinda came in for some heavy punishment, conceding 76 runs.