Rains have delayed the start of the second day of the first Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand in Galle.

Mahela Jayawardene cracked an unbeaten century as Sri Lanka took control on Day One of the first Test against New Zealand.

Jayawardene scored an unbeaten 108, his 26th Test century, as the hosts put the Black Caps' attack to the sword on a pitch which had assisted the fast bowlers at the start.

Chris Martin had secured early breakthroughs with the new ball, striking off successive overs to reduce Sri Lanka to 16 for two inside the first three overs.

Opener Tillakaratne Dilshan, however, gave the home side impetus with a belligerent 92, while Jayawardene and Thilan Samaraweera carried the momentum forward, helping the home side reach 293 for three at stumps.

Samaraweera is unbeaten on 82 and has so far added 159 for the fourth wicket with Jayawardene.

The start of play in the morning was delayed due to rain and, when play finally began 90 minutes late, the Black Caps gained the early advantage.