Victory 187 for 5 (Harper 101*, W Agar 3-25) against South Australia

Forced to bat first after losing the toss on Tuesday, Victoria collapsed to 29 for 4 in tricky, overcast batting conditions at the Adelaide Oval.

But as batting became a little easier, Harper launched an aggressive rearguard assault to help Victoria reach 187 for 5 at stumps.

It was Harper’s third first-class century in his 44th game, reaching the 64-ball milestone with a huge six to deep mid-wicket in a knock that included six sixes and was the third-fastest in Sheffield Shield history. .

His innings included 26 off an over from Nathan McAndrew as he went from 61 to 87 with three sixes and two fours.

Only 43 overs were bowled on Tuesday due to rain and a wet outfield delayed play significantly.

Handscomb ducked a bowling ball from Brendan Doggett, but the 32-year-old seemed confident that Lehmann had taken the catch correctly. After an argument with the referees, he finally retired, sent off for 7.

Peter Handscomb challenged the ruling that dismissed him.•fake images

Doggett claimed 2 for 45 but it was Wes Agar who did most of the damage as he bowled openers Travis Dean and Test hopeful Marcus Harris to leave Victoria reeling at 4 for 2.

The teams are third and fourth in the standings, making it a decisive final match before the Shield takes an extended break until February during the Big Bash League window.