South Australia defeated Western Australia by 44 runs in a One-Day Cup clash at the WACA, moving to the top of the table with one match left before the final. Liam Scott starred with an all-round performance, scoring 47 runs and taking 3 for 16 as WA were bowled out for 164 in the 39th over.
The match followed the shortest-ever Sheffield Shield result on the same ground, with pace and bounce still playing a significant role. WA’s 19-year-old paceman Mahli Beardman impressed with 4 for 46, while offspinner Corey Rocchiccioli claimed 2 for 38 on his List A debut.
Chasing 209, WA started well with Sam Fanning and Jayden Goodwin adding 40 runs. However, a brilliant one-handed catch from Jason Sangha dismissed Fanning on 34, triggering a collapse of 4 for 4. Ashton Turner (43) and D’Arcy Short (55) steadied the innings with a 77-run stand. But Scott’s delivery bowled Turner, and Short’s dismissal shortly after sealed WA’s fate.
Earlier, South Australia’s innings saw early wickets fall, leaving them at 51 for 3. Captain Nathan McSweeney (28) and Sangha (38) rebuilt the innings with a 54-run partnership. Scott’s late contribution helped South Australia reach 208 for 9, despite Beardman’s fiery yorkers claiming two wickets late.
South Australia, aiming for their first title since 2011-12, showcased their bowling strength to secure a crucial victory.
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