Jackson Bird, a veteran seamer, turned back the clock with a remarkable seven-wicket haul as New South Wales (NSW) secured a 30-run first-innings lead over South Australia (SA) on day one of their Sheffield Shield match.
Bird’s exceptional performance at Adelaide’s Karen Rolton Oval on Thursday saw him torment SA’s batters, who were dismissed for a paltry 110. His nagging deliveries outside the off stump proved too much for the hosts, with five batters edging to the slips. Conor McInerney also fell victim to Bird’s guile, inside-edging a ball to short leg in the opening over.
NSW openers Sam Konstas and Nic Maddinson provided a solid response, reaching 140 for 2 at stumps. Maddinson led the way with a patient 69 from 163 balls, while Konstas contributed a promising 28 before falling lbw to Harry Conway.
Konstas, considered a rising star in Australian cricket, showcased his potential with some impressive shots, including a delightful drive down the ground off Conway. However, his dismissal to a ball that nipped back into him highlighted the challenges of facing a quality bowling attack.
Maddinson, on the other hand, displayed his experience and composure, absorbing pressure before taking charge in the final session. He struck two elegant drives off Nathan McAndrew and smashed Conway through cover to reach his half-century.
However, a moment of brilliance from Lloyd Pope brought Maddinson’s innings to an end. Pope’s delivery drifted, dipped, and spun back between Maddinson’s bat and pad, bowling him in a rare bright spot for SA.
Despite Maddinson’s departure, NSW remains in a strong position heading into day two. Patterson, who finished the day unbeaten on 32, will look to build on his innings and extend the Blues’ lead.
