Lucas Herbert, who joined LIV Golf in January 2024, fired a 6-under 66 at Kingston Heath Golf Club on Friday to extend his lead to four through 36 holes. He sits at 14-under par. But Herbert knows not to get complacent at this point. Plenty of work remains for the Bendigo, Victoria native throughout the third and final rounds.

Herbert led the way after the second round in Melbourne while the former Open champion and his group were put on the clock.

American rookie Ryggs Johnston is set for a showdown with Lucas Herbert for the Australian Open trophy, as Cameron Smith drops from contention. In the women's event, South Korean Shin Jiyai holds a two-stroke lead over Hannah Green,