Queensland Beat Defending Champions South Australia in Sheffield Shield
Queensland won their first Sheffield Shield match in a year, beating defending champions South Australia by six wickets at Adelaide Oval.
Queensland ended South Australia's nine-game unbeaten streak, winning by six wickets at Adelaide Oval, Cricket Australia reported.
The Bulls were set 111 runs to win and stumbled early, losing four wickets for 29 runs. However, Jimmy Peirson (48no) and Jack Clayton (37no) formed an unbroken 82-run partnership to secure the victory on the cusp of tea on day three.
Paceman Xavier Bartlett took seven wickets in the game, including 5-52 in the second innings. South Australia posted 203 in the first innings and Queensland replied with 238. The match turned when Queensland reduced South Australia to 7-90, and they were eventually bowled out for 145. Ben Manenti scored 39 and Henry Thornton added 28.
In Queensland's chase, opener Hugh Weibgen was out for a duck and partner Angus Lovell made six, with Hugo Burdon (19) and Lachlan Hearn (3) soon following. SA opener Henry Hunt left the field after being hit on the head while fielding. This is South Australia's first loss since round two last season, ending their back-to-back Shield titles in 2025-26, Cricket Australia said in a statement.
Xavier Bartlett said, "It was a bit disappointing not to get the boys over the line, we were so close there in WA. But to come out and contribute to a win – it's always nice to get the first win on the board."
The Sheffield Shield is Australia's premier domestic first-class cricket competition, featuring six teams from different states. It has been a platform for players to showcase their skills and earn national team selection.