Sheffield Shield Final Set for a Thrilling Showdown After Stalemate in Adelaide
The Sheffield Shield final is finally set, but not without plenty of drama along the way. The last round clash between South Australia and Queensland at Karen Rolton Oval may have ended in a stalemate, but it provided crucial insights into what we can expect in the grand finale next week.
Queensland secured their spot in the final after results in other matches fell in their favor. The Bulls, who were somewhat disinterested as South Australia indulged in batting practice late in the game, erupted in celebration in the dressing room as they watched New South Wales and Western Australia’s chances slip away in their respective fixtures. Meanwhile, South Australia, having already booked their place in the final and the right to host it, remained composed and focused on the challenges ahead.
The biggest talking point from the match was the nature of the Karen Rolton Oval pitch. A total of 1,236 runs were scored in under 11 sessions, with only 22 wickets falling, making it a batting paradise. Queensland’s Test-capped spinner Mitchell Swepson toiled away for 66 overs, returning figures of 2-272, raising doubts about spin playing a significant role in the final. South Australia’s selectors now face a dilemma: should they go with two specialist spinners in Ben Manenti and Lloyd Pope, or lean on their pace attack? The lack of assistance for spin could see Manenti preferred for his batting ability alongside four seamers.
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With the likes of Brendan Doggett and Nathan McAndrew set to share the new ball, the final pace-bowling slot will be a toss-up between Jordan Buckingham and Henry Thornton. Buckingham has been solid throughout the season, while Thornton has been in impressive form towards the business end of the campaign. Adding to the intrigue is allrounder Liam Scott’s anticipated return, further complicating the selection puzzle.
South Australia’s batting lineup looks more settled, with centurions Conor McInerney, Jake Lehmann, Alex Carey, and Jason Sangha all showing fine form. McInerney, in particular, was under pressure but delivered at the right time, while Lehmann has hit a purple patch with back-to-back centuries. Carey’s sublime form continues to be a huge asset for the team.
For Queensland, selection appears more straightforward. The return of Test veteran Usman Khawaja for the final is a massive boost. The 38-year-old, who was rested for the final-round clash, will slot right back into the top order, where he averages nearly 70 in Shield cricket against South Australia. Michael Neser, who was managed carefully in the last game, will be raring to go in the final. Meanwhile, 19-year-old pacer Callum Vidler has impressed with his raw pace, touching the mid-140s km/h mark, and could be a wildcard option.
Queensland's journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable. They were languishing at the bottom of the table midway through the season but staged an incredible comeback. A pivotal moment came in their final match when Jack Wildermuth smashed his first Shield century in eight seasons, ensuring his side claimed enough batting bonus points to edge past Victoria.
The final will not only be about who plays better cricket but also about strategic decisions regarding pitch preparation. While Karen Rolton Oval has historically offered turn, this week’s match saw a flat track with little for the bowlers. Queensland’s Marnus Labuschagne expects a more balanced surface for the decider, one that might break up and offer spin late in the game. However, with South Australia holding the home advantage, they may stick to a batting-friendly track to negate Queensland’s strengths.
The stage is now set for an epic Sheffield Shield final. South Australia is aiming for their first title since 1995-96, while Queensland seeks their third triumph in seven years. With both teams boasting full-strength squads and plenty of firepower, expect a high-stakes battle where every run and every wicket will count.
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