Victoria’s hopes of securing a victory against South Australia in the Sheffield Shield match in Adelaide hang in the balance after a dominant performance from Ben Manenti. The offspinning allrounder played a pivotal role with both bat and ball, leaving South Australia in a commanding position heading into the final day.
Victoria’s openers managed to survive six overs unscathed, but they still require a daunting 337 runs to secure victory. South Australia’s declaration late in the day set Victoria a challenging target of 346, thanks in large part to Manenti’s aggressive batting.
Manenti’s unbeaten 62 off 71 balls, which included three towering sixes, was the highlight of South Australia’s second innings. He came to the crease with his team in trouble at 176 for 6, but his top-scoring performance helped them post a competitive total.
Earlier in the day, Manenti had also impressed with the ball, claiming career-best figures of 5 for 73. He picked up four top-order wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Victoria’s wicketkeeper Sam Harper, who had revived their innings on day two.
Victoria resumed day three on 195 for 7, but Harry Conway’s dismissal of Harper proved to be a turning point. Harper had reached 89 before being trapped lbw, ending his hopes of a century. Manenti then wrapped up the innings by bowling Doug Warren, leaving Victoria with a 75-run deficit.
South Australia’s second innings got off to a shaky start when Henry Hunt was caught behind without scoring. However, Jake Lehmann made amends for his first-innings duck with a well-compiled 60. Alex Carey, who has been in impressive form this season, also contributed with a valuable innings.
Veteran paceman Peter Siddle was the most successful bowler for Victoria, claiming 4 for 63 for the second time in the match. Rookie spinner Warren also impressed with 3 for 74.
With Victoria needing a significant number of runs to win and South Australia’s bowlers in good form, the match is poised for an exciting conclusion on the final day.
