France's Martin Couvra will take a two-shot lead into the weekend as he looks to win his first DP World Tour title at the Turkish Airlines Open in Antalya.

The 22-year-old rookie started the day in a three-way tie at the top of the leaderboard but pulled clear of the chasing pack courtesy of a five-under 66 at Regnum Carya on Friday.

Couvra has impressed during his maiden campaign at this level, having already posted four top-10 finishes, including fifth at the Hainan Classic last time out.

"I'm really happy about my game today - it's always good to have a bogey-free round," said world No.247 Couvra.

At 11-under par, Couvra leads by two from South Africa's Wilco Nienaber (65), with Li Haotong (65) a shot further back in third.

The 29-year-old from Shanghai, China remains in contention to win his fifth European tour event after claiming the Qatar Masters in Doha in February.

Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald (72) missed the cut on three over par, with Todd Clements (68) leading the British challenge on seven under in a tie for fourth.

The two Australians in the field both missed the weekend cut, with Daniel Gale (75) at even and Danny List (78) five-over the card.

With AAP.