England’s top order have continued their productive lead into the Ashes series, with Jonathan Trott and Alastair Cook cashing in on a flat wicket at the SCG.
Earlier, Steven Finn staked his claim for the first Test in Brisbane, after the England fast bowler cleaned up the Invitational XI’s lower order on day two.
At tea England were 1-147, with Trott 77 not out and Cook unbeaten on 63.
Finn helped England roll through the Invitational side in quick time on Thursday, with the home side losing their last five wickets for just 33 runs as they were bowled out for 304.
After struggling on day one, Finn got things right against the tail to finish with figures of 5-103.
England are searching for a third seamer to partner James Anderson and Stuart Broad at the Gabba, and Finn’s haul may edge him ahead of favourite Chris Tremlett a week out from the Ashes opener.
Young NSW bowler Josh Lalor struck early to get England opener Michael Carberry caught behind, but then two of the Ashes danger men found their feet.
Trott has smashed 13 fours and punished some short bowling from the Invite XI.
England will be looking to maximise their time at the crease, with rain predicted for days three and four in Sydney.
Rookie NSW batsman Ryan Carters was out first ball of the day to Broad, falling six runs short of a maiden first-class hundred.
Broad finished with figures of 4-37, a perfect lead-up to the first Test for the England star.
Peter Nevill also failed to kick on and post a hundred, but he appeared hard done by when given out caught behind off Finn for 83.
Replays suggested the ball had clipped Nevill’s thigh pad.