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NSW flatten Tasmania to end final drought

3 minute read

New South Wales set up a Sheffield Shield final meeting with old rivals Victoria after crashing through Tasmania's in-form batting line-up.

TRENT COPELAND of NSW bowls during day two of the Sheffield Shield match between New South Wales and Tasmania at Blundstone Arena in Hobart, Australia.
TRENT COPELAND of NSW bowls during day two of the Sheffield Shield match between New South Wales and Tasmania at Blundstone Arena in Hobart, Australia. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

New South Wales are into their first Sheffield Shield final for five years after an incredible spell of bowling from Sean Abbott demolished Tasmania on day four at Hobart's Bellerive Oval.

Needing a victory to stave off Western Australia's push for a berth in the final, the Blues were facing a nervous final day on Saturday but instead came away with a comfortable 149-run winning margin.

Despite Tasmania showing plenty of batting resolve in recent matches, the home side crumbled and were removed for 120 within a session.

Abbott was the chief destroyer, picking a perfect time to return career-best figures of 7-45 as Tasmania chased an achievable target of 270.

NSW elected to declare overnight at 5-149 after Western Australia grabbed a temporary hold on second spot with their three-day win over Queensland.

Tasmania's in-form top-order were immediately in trouble, with Abbott's seaming deliveries reducing the home side to 5-23. Matthew Wade scored 65 and was the only recognised batman to reach double figures.

Abbott duly combined with Trent Copeland (2-31) to roll through the tail as Tasmania were dismissed before the end of an elongated morning session.

NSW will meet Victoria in the five-day Shield final which commences next Thursday at Melbourne's Junction Oval.

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