Sydney: Australia took a commanding 243-run lead over plucky New Zealand in the third Test in Sydney on Sunday, looking set for a clean sweep of the series. The Australians dismissed the Black Caps for 251 to lead by 203 runs on the first innings before batting a second time in a bid to build an overwhelming total with two days remaining.

Aussies 40-0 at stumps

At stumps on Day Three, the hosts were 40 without loss with David Warner on 23 and Joe Burns not out 16. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon captured five for 68 to lead the Australian bowling attack, with Kiwi Test debutant Glenn Phillips top-scoring with 52. “We’re in a very good position here,” said Lyon, who has now taken a career 385 Test wickets. “A lot of work to do in the morning and we have to see what lead we, the batsmen, want to get to. It is pretty special to play here in front of your home crowd, in front of your family and friends. Nice to go up on the honours board.”