Kangaroos dominating Centenary Test

A pair of tries to Mark Gasnier helped Australia to a commanding 22-0 lead over New Zealand at half-time in the Centenary Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground tonight.

The SCG observed a one-minute silence prior to the kick-off in remembrance of Australian rugby league's coach of the century, Jack Gibson, who passed away earlier this evening.

An airborne Greg Inglis opened the Kangaroos' scoring in jaw-dropping fashion, flicking the ball over his head from over the dead ball line to Gasnier, who planted the ball for a try to the Kiwis' amazement.

To listen to a live audio stream of the 112th rugby league meeting between Australia and New Zealand, visit ABC Grandstand's rugby league page.

Johnathan Thurston showed no early signs of a partially torn ligament in his ankle, bending the ball to freakishly convert the opening try from the sideline and showing proficiency with the boot in general play.

Australia is on track to repeat last October's 58-0 trouncing of the Kiwis, controlling possession and making good ground in the first half.

While fierce in the field, the All Golds' defence on the try line was far from effective, with Cameron Smith and Paul Gallen both busting through for four-pointers right under the posts.

New Zealand skipper Roy Asotasi was helped from the field, doubled over and looking sick 16 minutes into the half.

Greg Bird is playing at five-eighth for the Kangaroos in the absence of injured playmaker Darren Lockyer, while Michael Crocker started at lock.

The Kiwis have their own injury woes, five-eighth Ben Roberts has been ruled out with a hamstring strain, replaced by Lance Hohaia.