South Australia secured an unforgettable two-run victory over Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield with a final-ball finish that will go down as one of the tightest matches in the tournament's 132-year history. The thrilling encounter unfolded in Hobart, with Tasmania falling agonizingly short in their pursuit of 429 runs.
Needing four runs from the final delivery for victory, Tasmania's Riley Meredith struck the ball to deep cover, where Ben Manenti fielded it. Meredith attempted a second run, seemingly unaware that a draw was an option, but was run out after his batting partner, Lawrence Neil-Smith, sent him back.
The dramatic wicket on the last ball handed South Australia the joint-closest win in Sheffield Shield history in terms of runs. Remarkably, Tasmania lost four wickets for just four runs in the final nine balls of the match, despite appearing poised for victory earlier.
South Australia’s victory propelled them to the top of the table, while Tasmania languished at the bottom.
Tim Ward's stellar 142 had set up a commanding position for Tasmania, supported by Jake Weatherald and Jordan Silk’s contributions of 65 each. Mitch Owen and Brad Hope kept Tasmania in contention on the final day with a blistering 72-run partnership in just 10 overs. Owen smashed 53 off 39 balls, while Hope scored 69, giving the hosts a real shot at victory.
Tasmania required seven runs off the last over, but Wes Agar's brilliant bowling turned the tide. After Gabe Bell was bowled for a duck, Meredith’s ill-fated final-ball run attempt sealed Tasmania's fate.
The match also featured dramatic moments earlier in the day, including Ward's maiden century since 2021. His composed innings of 16 boundaries was overshadowed by a controversial stumping attempt by South Australia. Ward, after ducking a bouncer, wandered out of his crease, but the appeal was denied by the umpires, reminiscent of the Jonny Bairstow dismissal at Lord's last year.
South Australia’s triumph in a game that extended past 6 PM on the final day will be remembered as a historic moment in the Sheffield Shield.
Updated on 9th December, 2024 by MyFortune11 Team