NSW Crushes Victoria in One-Day Cup Clash

New South Wales (NSW) dominated Victoria in a One-Day Cup clash at the Junction Oval, securing a resounding 140-run victory. Despite the absence of Josh Hazlewood due to illness, NSW showcased their batting prowess with half-centuries from Steven Smith, Nic Maddinson, and Matthew Gilkes.

Smith, returning to form after a disappointing Sheffield Shield match, struck a fluent 56 off 54 deliveries, including four fours and two sixes. Maddinson contributed 63 off 64 balls, while Gilkes provided a late surge with a blistering 74 off 42 deliveries, featuring eight fours and four sixes.

Victoria's bowlers struggled to contain NSW's onslaught, with only veteran Peter Siddle offering resistance. The 39-year-old claimed a List A career-best 5 for 49, including the wickets of Smith, Gilkes, Pat Cummins, Josh Philippe, and Moises Henriques.

In reply, Victoria's chase was anchored by Matthew Short's impressive 80 off 57 balls. However, the loss of wickets at regular intervals hindered their progress. Cummins, making his return after a long layoff, claimed the key wicket of Sam Harper, while Chris Green picked up three wickets to finish with 3 for 27.

The victory extends NSW's unbeaten start to the One-Day Cup, while Victoria remains winless after two matches.

Tags: #Cricket, #OneDayCup, #NSW, #Victoria, #StevenSmith