Queensland’s quicks have been made to toil for a much-needed 188-run Sheffield Defend victory that appeared inevitable earlier than some NSW resistance on the Gabba.
Set a 418-run victory goal, a profitable chase was by no means on the radar because the Blues sunk to 5-66 on Tuesday because of extra disciplined tempo bowling from the hosts.
However the Blues confirmed battle, wicketkeeper Josh Philippe contributing 80 and all-rounder Jack Edwards (53) backing up his first-innings century to maintain alive hopes of a draw.
Opening pair Xavier Bartlett (2-39) and Michael Neser (3-72) wouldn’t be denied, although, the pair placing in fast succession to depart them loads of time to mop up the tail halfway via the ultimate session.
Earlier, Sam Konstas (22) tried all of his tips to outwit the Bulls’ new-ball pair, solely to edge one of many first deliveries he confronted from good mate and second-change fast Tom Straker (2-17 off 12 overs).
Straker did the early injury for the Bulls earlier than Mark Steketee (2-41) and captain Mitchell Swepson (1-43) ran via the center order to depart the Blues in disarray.
It was the Bulls’ second Defend win, the facet retaining tempo on a stacked ladder with three matches nonetheless to play.
Tasmania defeats Victoria by 20 runs
Peter Handscomb’s rearguard has fallen quick as Kieran Elliott powered Tasmania dwelling towards Victoria for an exciting 20-run Sheffield Defend victory.
Elliott adopted his first innings, four-wicket haul with 6-84 in 28.1 overs on Tuesday because the hosts defied early rain and several other Victorian stands to notch an important second victory this season.
Set 270 for victory after Jake Weatherald’s blazing day-three century, Victoria resumed on Tuesday at 2-55 and inched in direction of the entire between morning rain delays.
Handscomb (93) had assist from Sam Elliott (34) earlier than Sam Harper (31) joined the previous Check bat and put the guests inside attain.
However Elliott ended each of these partnerships after which nabbed Will Sutherland (18 off 16) to once more stunt their march earlier than the second new ball was due.
Handscomb tried to do it himself, however might solely sky an tried flick over mid-wicket, Nivethan Radhakrishnan working in from the boundary to take the catch and spark wild scenes.
The Tigers raise off the underside of a crowded ladder whereas second-placed Victoria missed an opportunity to push away from the pack with three matches to play.
AAP
