Cartwright Benefited from Luck as WA Edges Closer to Tasmania

Hilton Cartwright enjoyed a fortunate escape as Western Australia (WA) established control in their Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania at Bellerive Oval. As WA moved to 220 for 2, trailing Tasmania's first-innings total of 317 by just 87 runs, Cartwright remained unbeaten on 48 alongside Jayden Goodwin, who was not out on 73.

The day's play saw WA capitalizing on a solid start provided by Sam Fanning, who contributed a vital 68 runs. The partnership between Goodwin and Cartwright has flourished, accumulating an unbeaten 91 runs for the third wicket and putting WA in a strong position as they look to take the lead on Sunday.

Late in the day, Cartwright had a close call when he edged a delivery from Mitchell Owen, which appeared to have been caught by wicketkeeper Jake Doran. The umpires convened to review the decision, leaving Tasmania stunned when the original not-out call was upheld. This decision provided Cartwright with a second chance, allowing him to continue building momentum for WA.

Fanning expressed confidence in the team's position, stating, “We’ve got two guys who are set at the crease, so I think we’re in a strong position. If we want to move the game forward, I think it’s in our hands.” WA entered the day needing to erase the deficit and take control of the match.

Tasmania's innings had seen their lower order struggle significantly, managing only 15 runs over 17.3 overs after starting their innings on 302 for 7. In response, WA had a slow start, reaching just 23 runs without loss by lunch after 28.3 overs of play.

Lawrence Neil-Smith faced 77 balls for a mere six runs, while Kieran Elliott fell to a stunning one-handed catch from Cameron Gannon after making 21 off 77 balls. The only wicket to fall before tea was that of Teague Wyllie, who was dismissed lbw by spinner Matthew Kuhnemann after scoring 22.

Fanning, who was pivotal in establishing a 70-run partnership for the first wicket with Wyllie, was eventually dismissed after chasing a wide half-volley from Bradley Hope. His dismissal marked a shift in momentum, but WA remained undeterred as Goodwin and Cartwright worked diligently to solidify their innings.

Kuhnemann, reflecting on Tasmania's efforts, mentioned the critical nature of the upcoming day: “I see a pathway for us to victory—four overs to go before the new ball. If we can take some wickets early tomorrow and put some pressure on, day three is moving day.”

With both teams gearing up for a decisive day, WA looks to build on their current position and potentially seize the match, while Tasmania aims to regroup and exert pressure on the batting side. The stage is set for an exciting continuation of the Sheffield Shield contest.