12th encounter Sheffield Shield 2025-26 season between Queensland and Western Australia It opened at the iconic WACA venue in Perth on Tuesday. The match featured competitive edge and dramatic moments, setting the scene for a thrilling four-day first-class contest. Western Australia opted to field first to put Queensland into bat in brilliant conditions conducive to runs and skilful cricket.
Cooper Connolly’s spectacular catch takes out Michael Neser on Day 1
One of the standouts on Day 1 was an electric catch by Western Australia’s running talent, Cooper Connolly. At 83.6, after a well-made bowl Cameron Gannon, Michael said Tried to capitalize with a wide delivery hitting the ball towards deep point. A shot designed to release the pressure, Connolly perfectly positioned in the air to finish. With much anticipation, he executed an acrobatic, sliding catch inside the boundary rope, denying Nesher a chance to add to his 38 from 56 balls. This catch gave not only Connolly’s athleticism and presence of mind, but also the Queensland bowlers an important breakthrough as Cameron Gannon claimed the fourth wicket in the innings. Neser’s dismissal in this crucial dismissal halted Queensland’s steady progress and boosted the morale of the Western Australian side.
Here is the video:
Cooper Connolly 🤯 🤯
How about this for a classic catch #cricket pic.twitter.com/rwygftk9jp
– Kayo Sports (@kayoSports) November 11, 2025
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Queensland dominates Western Australia on a strong day
Queensland’s first innings showed overall dominance despite being inspired by Western Australia’s bowlers. Batting first, Queensland were bowled out by the stumps on Day 1 for 323 runs for the loss of six wickets in 91 overs. The strikeout rate stood at 3.54, reflecting a balance between caution and aggression.
Matrgaw The Linchpin of the Queensland innings was with a certain century (101 runs off 198 balls including 8 fours and 2 sixes). Gannon took command of the shots before falling. Marnus labuschagneThe Queensland captain contributed a valuable 50 runs supporting his strong foundation. Other notable contributors include Jack Clayton (32) and Michael said (38). Meanwhile, he showed firmness with the lower order Lachlan Hearne undefeated at 48 and Xavier Bartlett 27 Outs, post-wakets help stabilize innings.
Western Australia’s bowling attack was led by Gannon who finished with an impressive figure of 54 in 18 overs. It was the other bowlers to make an impact Aaron Hardie and Cameron greenConsistently applying pressure despite Queensland’s steady scoring. Queensland’s batsmen effectively exploited a mix of patience and selective aggression to put Western Australia on the back foot early in the match and blast their west.
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