Former Test players Chris Rogers and Cameron White combined on Thursday to drive Victoria to first innings points and a lead of 37 in their Sheffield Shield clash with NSW at the SCG.

The forgotten pair put on an 80-run partnership to carry the Bushrangers to within sight of NSW’s total of 293, before Rogers was dismissed for a classy 125 by Test hopeful Mitchell Starc, who finished with figures of 4-72.

White continued to defy NSW’s impressive pace barrage to record a crucial knock of 72, his first half-century of the summer, before he too fell to Starc, who also snared the vital scalp of David Hussey on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old left-armer, vying for a recall for the Adelaide Test starting next Thursday, enjoyed a day in the sun on Thursday picking up three wickets as Victoria finished all out for 330.

Rogers looked composed and confident under overcast skies on Wednesday, and looked to cash in on a big score when he passed three figures, his 56th first-class ton, with the weather clearing on Thursday.

But he was left to rue a decision to chase a short, wide Starc delivery, slashing a wild cut shot to David Dawson, who took a fine, diving catch at deep point.

Rogers had earlier survived a massive shout for caught behind off Doug Bollinger (0-70) who bowled without luck throughout the day and may face a penalty for disputing the decision.

Bollinger had a lengthy tantrum, glaring at Rogers before storming back to his mark and throwing the ball into the turf.

He then unleashed a fiery spell with the new ball, peppering White and Rogers but somehow remaining wicketless.