Joel Paris blocks way to remarkable Shield draw for Western Australia
Joel Paris batted at No.11 with a hamstring injury to help WA secure a remarkable draw after falling to 9-205 chasing 364.
Western Australia produced a remarkable escape in their Sheffield Shield match against NSW, holding on for a draw at the WACA Ground despite being on the brink of defeat. Chasing 364 for victory, WA collapsed to 9-205 in the fourth innings with 28 overs still left.
Injured tail-ender Joel Paris came in at No.11 with a runner due to a hamstring injury, and he and wicketkeeper Joel Curtis simply refused to take risks, batting out the remaining overs. Paris made 25 not out from 82 balls while Curtis stayed 19 not out from 113.
NSW, who had dominated the match, threw everything at them including placing all fielders around the bat in the final overs, but could not dislodge Paris. The result gave WA a crucial draw in their hunt for a top-two finish.
NSW opener Sam Konstas was man of the match after scoring 151 not out.
- 364 runs
- Target
- 9-205
- WA's low point
- 25 not out (82 balls)
- Paris's score
- 28.1
- Overs remaining
Why it mattersA draw in this contest is almost as valuable as a win for WA's finals hopes, especially after a near-impossible position in the final session.
AustraliaSheffield Shield results directly affect Australian state cricket rankings and can influence selections for the national team.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
