Patterson's century puts pressure on Test selectors
Kurtis Patterson scored 117 not out as NSW reached 4-345, pressing for Test selection after playing only two Tests in 2019.
NSW dominated day one against Western Australia at the WACA Ground with four batters posting significant innings. Kurtis Patterson scored 117 not out off 209 balls, his 16th first-class century, while Sam Konstas made 71, Lachlan Shaw 61 and Ollie Davies 52.
Patterson's timing is significant: he played only two Tests for Australia in 2019 and with the Test batting line-up unsettled, his Shield form may press selectors' minds. The 33-year-old scored 30 and 114 against Sri Lanka in those two matches.
Konstas, 21, is also targeting Test selection after making his Boxing Day debut against India in 2024. He hasn't played a Test since July last year after struggling against West Indies.
The opener also scored 67 for Australia A against India A earlier this month.
- 33
- Patterson's age
- 2
- Tests played in 2019
- 16
- First-class centuries
- 21
- Konstas age
Why it mattersSheffield Shield performances directly influence Test selection, so dominant innings from fringe players signal who might be next to challenge for places.
AustraliaAustralian cricket followers watch Sheffield Shield form closely as it shows which batters could be next in line for Test call-ups in key series.
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