Recently-capped Test batsman Joe Burns is leading the way as Queensland reached 3-149 in their Sheffield Shield match against Victoria in Alice Springs.

Opener Burns has moved along to 76 not out at tea on a slow day’s play in the maiden Shield match to be played in Alice Springs.

The Victorian attack has maintained their discipline in extremely hot conditions in the top end, conceding just 2.3 runs an over during the first two sessions.

Leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed has been the pick of the bowlers, collecting 2-26 off 15 overs, including the wickets of Chris Hemphrey (31) and Peter Forrest (1), both lbw.

Victoria opened the bowling with James Pattinson, the Test spearhead missing the last game as part of his ongoing rehabilitation from a back injury.

Pattinson went wicket-less but bowled with pace and accuracy, leaking just 16 runs from his eight overs, though his next three overs cost 15.

The match could have a crucial bearing on the ladder with the winner likely to move into second spot, dependant on the result between ladder leaders NSW and Western Australia.