Victoria suffer first loss of 2018-19 JLT Sheffield Shield season

This story originally appeared on cricket.com.au

Queensland captain Khawaja was reduced to a cameo role as the Bulls comfortably reeled in a modest victory target of 88 to clinch an eight wicket Sheffield Shield win over Victoria at the Gabba.

In his first game back from knee surgery, the Test opener went for 18 as the Bulls cruised to 2-90 before tea on day three to seal their season’s first Shield victory.

Batting at No.3, Khawaja hit two fours in his 31-ball knock on Thursday after his impressive 41 in Queensland’s first innings of 271.

Incumbent Test opener Khawaja may bat at No.3 against India if selectors opt for rookie Marcus Harris at the top of the order with fellow Victorian Aaron Finch in Adelaide.

Harris bounced back from a first innings failure to top score with 62 in ladder-leading Victoria’s second dig of 191 at the Gabba.

Finch made just one in Victoria’s second dig after a fighting 50 in the visitors’ first innings of 167.

The batsman who impressed most before the Test opener was Victoria captain Peter Handscomb, ensuring a tough call for coach Justin Langer.

Langer said Handscomb was vying with Harris for the final spot in their top six in Adelaide.

Handscomb did his best to earn a Test middle order recall, boosting the Vics’ second innings with a fine 53 after his defiant 81 in the first dig.

Queensland set up their win by bowling out Victoria for 191 in their second innings before lunch on Thursday after the visitors resumed on 5-157.

Full scorecard here.