Pre-Ashes Auditions Underway in Sheffield Shield
Australia's cricketers are deep into their final preparations for the upcoming Ashes series, with the Sheffield Shield providing a crucial stage for players to press their claims. However, for debutant-in-waiting Jake Weatherald, his audition did not go to plan.
The Tasmania left-hander, who is widely expected to be named as Usman Khawaja's new opening partner for the first Test against England at Perth's Optus Stadium starting November 21, was dismissed for just 23 runs against his former state, South Australia.
Mixed Fortunes for Test Hopefuls
Weatherald was not the only current squad member to struggle in Hobart. The low-scoring encounter saw two other members of the top-six dismissed cheaply. Beau Webster managed only 13 runs for the hosts, who were bowled out for 209. Webster did make a contribution with the ball, however, claiming the wicket of Travis Head for single figures, caught behind. South Australia closed the day on 88 for three.
One significant positive for the national selectors was the performance of squad bowler Brendan Doggett. The 31-year-old, acting as back-up to Scott Boland, continued his excellent form by taking 5 for 66. This marks his second five-wicket haul in as many Shield matches, strengthening his case for a potential role in the series.
Handscomb Hits Century as NSW Toil
Meanwhile, in Sydney, New South Wales were made to work hard by Shield leaders Victoria. While England players like Joe Root, Mark Wood, and Jofra Archer attended an optional training session at Lilac Hill, Steve Smith was leading NSW. Smith, fine-tuning his decision-making as he prepares to deputise for the injured Pat Cummins, lost the toss.
Despite having four first Test squad members in his attack, Smith watched as Victoria piled up 340 for seven. Leicestershire captain Peter Handscomb was the star, taking advantage of an early drop on nought to hit the 30th first-class hundred of his career. He was eventually bowled by a superb delivery from Nathan Lyon late on the first day.
Veteran Mitchell Starc claimed four wickets but was also targeted in a vicious counter-attack by Victoria's wicketkeeper Sam Harper, who hit him for two sixes. Josh Hazlewood went wicketless, and Sean Abbott's sole success came from a Fergus O'Neill chop-on.
The match also featured a notable tactical development, with the use of the second-ever substitute in Australian first-class cricket for reasons other than concussion. After Will Salzmann injured himself fielding, New South Wales drafted in Ryan Hicks, leaving Victoria with the option to make their own tactical substitute under this season's trial playing conditions.
