In one of the strangest batting collapses in recent history, Western Australia crumbled from a steady 52/2 to 53 all out, losing eight wickets for just one run in their fourth match of the ongoing One-Day Cup against Tasmania at the WACA Ground in Perth. The defending champions suffered a total collapse, marking the second-lowest team in Australia’s domestic one-day cup history.
After being sent into bat, Western Australia looked to be building a solid foundation, reaching 52/2 in the 16th over. But in a sudden and dramatic turn, their middle and lower order completely disintegrates. In the space of just 28 deliveries, they lost eight wickets for just one run, which came from a wide circle. That collapse saw six players sent off without scoring, including some of Australia’s white-ball hopefuls Hilton Cartwright, Ashton Turner, Ashton Agar and Josh Inglis.
A devastating bowling performance from Tasmania was led by Beau Webster, who tore apart the Western Australian line-up, taking 6 for 17 – his career-best figures. He was supported by Billy Stanlake, who finished with 3 for 17. D’Arcy Short top-scored for Western Australia with 22 runs, while Cameron Bancroft was the only other player to reach double figures, scoring 14.
In reply, Tasmania chased down the modest target of 54 runs with ease, completing the job in just 8.3 overs to secure a seven-wicket win. Although Tasmania lost three wickets in their chase, Mitchell Owen top-scored with 29 to secure a comfortable win for his side. For Western Australia, Joel Parris (2/10) and Lance Morris (1/10) claimed wickets, but it was too little too late after the shocking batting collapse.
It is not the first time Western Australia has experienced a dramatic collapse in this year’s competition. In an earlier match, they went from 133/3 to 164 all out while chasing 167 against South Australia, eventually losing that game as well. With three losses in four matches so far, the defending champions are now fighting to retain their title.
Western Australia will need to regroup quickly after this humiliating defeat, while Tasmania will be buoyed by a crucial win in their One Day Cup campaign.
