Western Australia’s batting heroes, Sam Whiteman and Josh Inglis, defied a hostile Queensland attack to rescue their team from a disastrous start on day one of the Sheffield Shield clash at the WACA.
After Test hopeful Cameron Bancroft fell off the first ball, Michael Neser wreaked havoc, claiming two more wickets to leave WA reeling at 18 for 3. However, Whiteman and Inglis combined for a mammoth 203-run partnership, turning the tide in WA’s favor.
Inglis, known for his aggressive style, smashed 122 off 117 balls, while Whiteman played a more measured innings, batting for almost the entire day to score 102. Neser, who has been on the fringes of Test selection, inspired a late rally with the second new ball, dismissing Whiteman and Matthew Kelly to finish with 5 for 48.
Queensland skipper Marnus Labuschagne’s decision to bowl first paid off initially, but Whiteman and Inglis’s heroics proved too much for the visitors. Hilton Cartwright and Cooper Connolly also contributed valuable runs, while first-class debutant Tom Straker impressed with his lively spell.
Both teams entered the season with injury concerns, but WA’s depth was tested with several key players sidelined. Queensland, too, were without quick Xavier Bartlett.
As the match enters day two, WA will look to build on their strong position, while Queensland will need to find a way to break through their resilient batting lineup.
