South African rising star Aldrich Potgieter will take a three-shot lead into the final round of the Nedbank Golf Challenge as he goes for glory on home soil.

The 20-year-old started the day four shots off the lead but carded an eagle and four birdies in a spotless third-round 66 on Saturday to storm to the top of the pile. 

He sits at seven under par, three clear of England’s Matthew Jordan and Italy’s Francesco Laporta in a tie for second.

Australian PGA champion Elvis Smylie, who had been hoping to make a charge on moving day, actually went in the wrong direction, with his one-over 73 moving him back to level par for the championships, now seven off the pace in joint-18th place.   

Potgieter, who won the Amateur Championship in 2022 at Royal Lytham & St Annes before becoming the youngest winner on the Korn Ferry Tour earlier this year, is hoping for a memorable final round as he chases his maiden European tour win and a special home victory. 

“It would be a dream come true,” said the youngster at the Gary Player Country Club. 

“Playing in front of a home crowd, I have never played a round like this in front of a big crowd before and it’s been huge. 

“I’ve been in this position a few times with a few people watching, but to be at home, it is very good.”

Smylie had his moments on a tough day, none better than at the 11th hole where the left-hander produced a superb chip that rolled in to save his par.

Currently the early leader of the European tour’s order of merit after his fine performances back in Australia, the 22-year-old Smylie is still only four shots off second place so will be looking for an impressive finish on Sunday.