Cricket

Queensland's Rain-Soaked Resistance Thwarts New South Wales' Sheffield Shield HopesBrisbane's relentless rain has cast a shadow over New South Wales' already slim chances of reaching the Sheffield Shield final. The fourth-placed Blues, in order to secure a spot in next week's decider, must convincingly defeat Queensland and accumulate bonus points. However, the inclement weather at Allan Border Field has severely hampered their progress.On Monday, only 12 overs were possible, dealing a significant blow to NSW's hopes of forcing a result. Quick bowler Chris Tremain emerged as the standout performer for the visitors, claiming two early wickets to reduce Queensland to 3 for 2. Opener Angus Lovell was caught in the slips, while Jack Clayton was adjudged leg before wicket, both without scoring.The rain then took hold, forcing a lengthy delay of over six hours. Play resumed briefly for less than two overs before another downpour halted proceedings. The persistent rain has left NSW with an uphill battle to achieve their target.To qualify for the final, NSW must not only defeat Queensland but also rely on Western Australia to draw their match against Victoria in Melbourne. Additionally, they need Victoria to limit their bonus point accumulation.Queensland, currently languishing at the bottom of the ladder, has shown resilience in the face of adversity. Despite their struggles throughout the season, they have put up a spirited fight against NSW, making the most of the rain-affected conditions.As the weather forecast remains uncertain, the fate of the Sheffield Shield final hangs in the balance. NSW's hopes are fading with each passing hour, while Queensland's chances of causing an upset are growing.

Western Australia (WA) secured a crucial 146-run victory over Queensland at the WACA, propelling them to second place on the Sheffield Shield ladder with one round remaining.After dismissing Queensland for 170 in their first innings, WA set a target of 307 for victory. Queensland resumed day four at 56 for 1, but WA's bowlers, led by Corey Rocchiccioli and Cameron Gannon, made early inroads.Jack Wildermuth and Ben McDermott provided resistance for Queensland, scoring half-centuries. However, Rocchiccioli and Gannon combined for seven wickets, with Rocchiccioli claiming 4-109 and Gannon taking 3-49.WA's victory has set up a semi-final clash with Victoria, who lost to Tasmania in a thrilling encounter. The match will be played at the Junction Oval from March 11.WA may consider changes to their lineup, with allrounder Aaron Hardie potentially returning from injury. Experienced quick Joel Paris could be rested, opening the door for Ashton Agar to make his first Shield appearance of the season.Agar and Rocchiccioli have never played together for WA but are close friends and club cricket teammates. Rocchiccioli expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing alongside Agar.Queensland, who were out of contention for the final, showed resilience in their second innings. Angus Lovell and Jack Clayton dug in late on day three, but WA's bowlers seized control on day four.Jimmy Peirson was bowled by Rocchiccioli, but Wildermuth and Xavier Bartlett combined for a half-century partnership. Wildermuth eventually fell for 91, edging Rocchiccioli to slip.The match marked the final day of Australian cricket for retiring umpires Paul Wilson and Bruce Oxenford, who received a guard of honor from the teams and a standing ovation from the crowd.

Western Australia's quest for a third consecutive Sheffield Shield title gained momentum after a dominant bowling performance against Queensland at the WACA Ground.In response to WA's competitive 310, Queensland were bundled out for a paltry 170 in 54.5 overs on a challenging day marked by overcast conditions and gusty winds. WA openers Cameron Bancroft and Sam Whiteman safely negotiated 16 runs before lightning forced an early end to the day's play.Spinner Corey Rocchiccioli played a pivotal role in dismantling Queensland's tail, claiming 4 for 54. Joel Paris continued his impressive form with 2 for 15 off 12 overs, while Charlie Stobo and Cameron Gannon also chipped in with wickets.Queensland's top order faltered in the overcast conditions, with Paris dismissing Bryce Street for a duck. Gannon produced a spectacular diving one-handed catch off his own bowling to dismiss Angus Lovell. Jack Clayton, Jimmy Peirson, and Jack Wildermuth all made starts but failed to convert them into substantial scores.WA's bowlers maintained a relentless pressure, with wickets falling at regular intervals. Queensland managed to add 46 runs for their last two wickets, but WA held a commanding lead of 156 runs.The victory puts WA in a strong position to secure a top-two finish in the Shield standings. They currently sit third but have an opportunity to leapfrog second-placed Victoria, who are facing defeat against ladder leaders Tasmania.WA will face Victoria in the final round at Junction Oval, meaning their fate is in their own hands. Bancroft and Whiteman will be crucial in forming a solid second-innings partnership when play resumes on Sunday.