A chase on their hands

On the back of a fine century from opener Blake Reed, Western Australia was able to compile 291 thanks to several middle-order partnerships with Victoria reaching 1-9 at stumps.

Victorian coach Jarrad Loughman commended Reed on his innings.

“We missed some half opportunities and he made us pay as all good batsmen do,” Loughman said

“We really need someone from our team to play the role that he did in order for us to win.”

Ben Ashkenazi was again the pick of the bowlers with 4-55, while Ejaaz Alavi put in his best showing of the carnival en route to 3-56 from 26 overs.

Victoria suffered blow before the close of play, with in-form opener James Lidgett being dismissed in the second over – a wicket that saw Shea Gribben reprise his role as nightwatchman for the second game in a row alongside Rob Salerni.

Loughman stated that partnerships would be key, much like the victory against NSW.

“Shea’s job is to just get through the first hour and take the shine off the new ball to make life easier for the boys down the order, and Rob can just play his shots and be aggressive,” Loughman said.

“Hopefully these boys can build a nice partnership and set the tone for the day.”

Despite the large total that remains, Loughman stated the batsmen to come would take heart in the fact they chased down NSW’s total of 209 with relative ease only two days prior.

“This chase really is an extension on our last game,” Loughman said.

“The only difference is an extra 80 runs.”

Victoria’s innings will recommence at 10am today.

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