Tasmania 236 (Webster 75*, McDermott 50, Abbott 3-40, Zampa 3-41) and 0 for 6 need 281 more runs to beat New South Wales 8 for 417 dec and 1 for 105 dec (Hughes 63*)

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.

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.

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

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.