Queensland opener Matt Renshaw has reignited his Test aspirations with a defiant century against Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield. The 28-year-old, who had been overlooked for the upcoming India series, struck an unbeaten 120 to lead Queensland’s fightback on day three at Allan Border Field.
Renshaw’s innings was a timely reminder of his class, having struggled for runs in recent Shield matches. However, he displayed confidence and determination from the outset, hitting his first boundary with a purposeful whip through mid-on. He continued in that vein, bringing up his 22nd first-class century with a punch through cover.
Renshaw’s century came after he had taken steps to block out the hype surrounding Australia’s opening slot. “Deleting a lot of apps and not reading any news has been a big one,” he said. “It feels like every summer there is a circus about something and it is usually about the openers because Australian cricket wants another opener.”
Despite missing out on Test selection, Renshaw remains confident in his ability to add to his 14 caps for Australia. “Definitely. I feel like I am not too far away,” he said. “Obviously timing is huge in cricket. I missed my time on this occasion but there will be another time in the future when I have to be ready.”
Renshaw received support from Ben McDermott, Jimmy Peirson, and 19-year-old seamer Tom Straker. McDermott scored 44, Peirson contributed 36, and Straker took 4-87 in Tasmania’s first innings.
Tasmania had resumed on 394 for 5 on day three, but were bowled out for 461. Allrounder Beau Webster upped the ante as wickets tumbled, scoring a quickfire 32.
Queensland finished the day on 274 for 7, needing 37 runs to avoid the follow-on with a day remaining.
