Zampa's chance to be a matchwinner after NSW set up final-day chase

A desperate and winless New South Wales gambled with a generous declaration late on day three as the Sheffield Shield heavyweights chase a much-needed win over Tasmania at the SCG having declined to enforce the follow-on.

Adam Zampa had earlier given a glimpse of what he could achieve in red-ball cricket with three wickets and shaped as a crucial figure on the final day.

With some showers predicted on day four in Sydney, NSW declared late in the third session to set the visitors a relatively modest victory target of 287.

Daniel Hughes again led the way backing up his career-best 178 in the first innings with 63 not out.

Hughes struck six boundaries in his 78-ball knock as the hosts scored at just over four an over.

Tasmania successfully held up NSW's push thanks to some determined defiance from Ben McDermott and Beau Webster.

The pair chewed up 148 and 150 balls respectively, with NSW needing 104 overs before dismissing Tasmania for 236 and a 181-run lead on the first innings.

Zampa, who has previously spoken about his disappointment at missing the Test squad to tour India and was again overlooked when cover was needed for Mitchell Swepson, took 3 for 41 from 18 overs. He had McDermott well caught at mid-on, trapped Jarrod Freeman on the back foot and pushed a slider through Nathan Ellis.

NSW are marooned at the bottom of the table without a victory after six rounds but are only two wins shy of second. Tasmania sit in fifth but are one of four states with two wins this season.