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In a dramatic conclusion to one of the closest contests in Sheffield Shield history, South Australia triumphed over Tasmania by a mere two runs, securing an extraordinary victory on the final ball of the match in Hobart. This heart-stopping game, a testament to the unpredictability and intensity of cricket, saw Tasmania needing four runs from […]
In a dramatic conclusion to one of the closest contests in Sheffield Shield history, South Australia triumphed over Tasmania by a mere two runs, securing an extraordinary victory on the final ball of the match in Hobart. This heart-stopping game, a testament to the unpredictability and intensity of cricket, saw Tasmania needing four runs from the last delivery to chase down a formidable target of 429.
Riley Meredith, playing a crucial role for Tasmania, struck the ball confidently to deep cover, where Ben Manenti fielded it comfortably. In a surprising turn of events, Meredith, seemingly unaware of the possibility of a draw, decided to attempt a second run. His batting partner, Lawrence Neil-Smith, signaled him back, but it was too late. Meredith was run out, ending the match dramatically and sealing a historic win for South Australia. The game, rich with tension and a thrilling climax, will be remembered as one of the most exciting finishes in the 132-year history of the Sheffield Shield.
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The last-ball wicket secured South Australia’s historic victory, making it the equal-tightest win by runs in Sheffield Shield history. The match, which stretched past 6 p.m. on the final day, will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns. The result was even more impressive given that Tasmania had seemed poised for victory, only to lose 4 for 4 in the final nine balls of the game. This win catapulted South Australia to the top of the Shield table, while Tasmania now find themselves at the bottom.
Tim Ward’s 142 had put Tasmania in a strong position, seemingly ensuring they couldn’t lose. However, the dynamic duo of Mitch Owen and Brad Hope gave the hosts a real shot at victory on Monday. Owen, with his aggressive 53 off 39 balls, and Hope, who made 69, forged a 72-run partnership that came together in 10 overs. Hope’s innings ended when he was caught at the boundary attempting to hook Wes Agar. Despite this, Owen’s continued aggression kept Tasmania in the hunt.
With 62 runs needed from nine overs, then 44 from six, and finally seven from the last six balls after Owen’s powerful strike over mid-wicket, Tasmania’s hopes were alive. But the momentum shifted when Owen was caught on the long-on boundary, and Matt Kuhnemann was dismissed for a duck on the first ball he faced. South Australia’s resolve grew more substantial, and with seven runs required from the final over, Gabe Bell was bowled for a duck by Agar. That set the stage for the chaos of the last ball, culminating in a remarkable run-out that secured South Australia’s unforgettable win.
The earlier stages of the day were equally dramatic, featuring milestone innings from Tim Ward—his first century since his maiden Shield ton in October 2021. Ward, alongside Jake Weatherald and Jordan Silk, who each contributed 65, led Tasmania’s charge with 16 boundaries, including a stunning cover drive off Wes Agar that brought up his century.
However, Ward’s innings were marked by one of the game’s most bizarre moments during the middle session. As Tasmania pushed for victory, South Australia resorted to short-pitched deliveries to disrupt the visitors’ momentum. Ward faced a bouncer from Henry Thornton, ducked under it, and stepped out of his crease to reset his guard. The scene recalled the infamous Jonny Bairstow stumping at Lord’s from the previous year, where a moment of confusion led to an iconic dismissal.
This time, South Australia’s wicketkeeper, Harry Nielsen, attempted a quick stumping, throwing down the stumps instantly. The appeal was denied, as the umpires appeared to have deemed that the over had concluded before the stumping attempt. This unusual sequence added to the tension and unpredictability of an already enthralling contest.