The benchmark BSE Sensex today rose over 73 points in early trade, extending gains for the third straight day on sustained buying by funds and retail investors, driven by rising optimism over trade ties with China amidst a firming trend overseas. The 30-share index gained 73.39 points, or 0.27 per cent, to 27,185.60 with power, realty, infrastructure, PSU, healthcare, and metal sector stocks leading the rally.