ADELAIDE, Oct 17 AAP - South Australia continued to build a commanding lead despite losing three wickets before lunch in its second innings on day three of its Pura Cup cricket match against Victoria at Adelaide Oval today.

After starting the day at 1-268, SA was 4-377 at lunch, a lead of 373 runs with six wickets in hand after trailing Victoria by four runs on the first innings.

SA skipper Greg Blewett was the first batsman out today, caught at first slip off Michael Lewis for 103, ending a partnership of 260 with opener Ben Johnson, the highest-ever second-wicket stand for SA against Victoria.

It took a brilliant left-handed reflex catch from paceman Mathew Inness off his own bowling to dismiss Johnson, who was out three overs later for 165.

Chris Davies (14) was the other batsman out today, adjudged lbw to leg-spinner Cameron White despite being well forward.

But all-rounder Mark Higgs ensured SA continued to amass a big lead, with an unbeaten 56 from 64 balls before lunch.

Michael Miller, on three, was the other not out batsman, while Inness had the best figures of 2-46 for the Bushrangers.

© 2002 AAP

This report does not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Cricket Board.