In a surprising upset, Western Australia defeated Queensland by six wickets in the One-Day Cup, eliminating Queensland from title contention. Queensland struggled, posting only 131 runs in 29.2 overs, with Mitchell Swepson contributing 45 runs. WA’s Bryce Jackson excelled, taking 4 wickets for 39 runs, while Brody Couch and Mahli Beardman also made vital contributions. Chasing 132, WA comfortably reached their target in 26 overs, thanks to solid performances from Hilton Cartwright, Sam Fanning, and Jayden Goodwin. This win marked WA’s second of the season, amid injury struggles and poor form throughout the campaign.
Western Australia 132 for 4 defeated Queensland 131 (Swepson 45, Jackson 4-39, Couch 3-45) by six wickets
Queensland suffered a disappointing exit from the One-Day Cup title race, falling to a six-wicket defeat against bottom-placed Western Australia at the Gabba.
In response, a largely inexperienced WA side achieved the victory target within a brisk 26 overs, with contributions from Hilton Cartwright, Sam Fanning, and Jayden Goodwin.
Queensland came into their final match of the regular season holding third place, looking to secure a spot in the final on March 1. They needed a win against WA, along with a Victoria victory over second-placed NSW to guarantee their place in the showpiece.
Even with a NSW win over Victoria, Queensland could still make the final by achieving a bonus-point victory over WA. However, the Bulls’ hopes quickly faded.
Queensland lost key players Ben McDermott, Jimmy Peirson, and Matt Renshaw early, collapsing to 17 for 3 by the fifth over.
Lachlan Hearne and Angus Lovell managed to stabilize the innings momentarily, but this was short-lived as WA’s youthful bowling attack continued to dominate.
Queensland found themselves at 102 for 9 before No. 10 Mitchell Swepson blasted 45 off 35 balls, giving Queensland a glimmer of hope for a miraculous recovery.
The pace trio collectively had only 15 List A appearances, while spinner Corey Rocchiccioli was making just his second appearance in List A cricket.
Yet, despite their lack of experience, the WA bowlers made easy work of Queensland’s formidable line-up. Swepson’s effort of three sixes and three fours represented the sole resistance from Queensland.
WA’s run chase was straightforward, with teenager Callum Vidler being the only Queensland bowler to make any significant impact.
This victory marked only the second win for WA this season, as their aspirations for a fourth consecutive title were hindered by injuries and inconsistent form throughout the campaign.