Anirban Lahiri is in control of the CIMB Classic after carding a seven-under 65 to grab a four-shot lead at the end of the third round.

The Indian, seeking his first PGA Tour win, moved into 19 under at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club in Malaysia on Saturday.

It marks the first third-round lead of Lahiri's PGA Tour career, with Justin Thomas (71) and Russell Knox (68) tied for second.

In a good sign for Lahiri, the 54-hole leader or co-leader has won five of six editions of the tournament.

A double bogey at the 12th was the only blemish on a good day for Lahiri, who birdied four of his last five holes and nine in total.

Knox had five birdies and a bogey, while defending champion and overnight leader Thomas (71) finished strongly, birdieing his final five holes.

Hideki Matsuyama (69) was left to rue a bogey at the last as he slipped to 14 under.

Joining him in a tie for fourth are Derek Fathauer (68) and James Hahn (69).

Scott Piercy (67) is at 13 under, a shot ahead of fellow American Keegan Bradley (68).

Australian Adam Scott is among a host of players at 11 under after firing a 66, with Safeway Open champion Brendan Steele (69) alongside him.

Kevin Na is struggling in a tie for 40th, but the American produced some magic on the 203-yard eighth with a hole-in-one.