Western Australia’s dominance in Australian domestic cricket continued as they clinched a historic hat-trick of Sheffield Shield titles with a crushing 377-run victory over Tasmania at the WACA.
Resuming on day four with a commanding lead of 316 runs, WA’s batsmen extended their advantage to 537 before declaring their second innings on 376. Hilton Cartwright led the way with an unbeaten 94, while Cameron Gannon and Corey Rocchiccioli wreaked havoc with the ball for Tasmania.
Tasmania’s chase of an improbable 538 runs proved futile as they were bowled out for a mere 160 in just 40.5 overs. Gannon starred with a five-wicket haul, while Rocchiccioli claimed three wickets.
The Tasmanian innings imploded under a withering new-ball spell from Gannon and Joel Paris, who reduced them to 26 for 3. Beau Webster, the Shield’s leading run-scorer, provided a brief glimmer of hope with a spectacular diving catch to dismiss Aaron Hardie, but his dismissal late in the day ended any chance of a miracle.
WA’s victory cemented their status as the powerhouse of Australian domestic cricket. It was only the second three-peat over the past 20 years and WA’s first since the late 1980s. They are also the only team to have won three consecutive Sheffield Shield and Marsh Cup titles.
Tasmania, who needed an outright victory to end an 11-year drought, played aggressively but were outmatched by WA’s brilliant attack. WA dominated all facets of the match, while Tasmania appeared overmatched after missing their chance to host the final due to a last-round loss to South Australia.
