Clarke century puts NSW in lead
An unconquered century by Michael Clarke has guided New
South Wales to first innings points at stumps on the third day in their rain
interrupted Pura Cup clash against Queensland in Sydney today.
The Australian Test discard hit back at his critics with an unbeaten 107, and
combined with Dominic Thornely (86), helped the Blues along to 5-331 at stumps
on the third day, in reply to the Bulls first innings total of 266.
After an early morning delay due to rain, New South Wales resumed on 1-6 and
opener Matthew Phelps and Simon Katich appeared unfazed by the quality
Queensland attack, moving the score along to 1-99.
Mitchell Johnson broke the 93-run stand when he bowled Katich for 46 shortly
before lunch, while Noffke claimed Phelps (62) in the same fashion after the
break to leave New South Wales at 3-128.
However, a solid fourth-wicket partnership between Clarke and Thornely guided
the home side to 3-261 at tea, before taking first innings points early in the
final session.
|
Pura Cup - Match 10 |
| QUEENSLAND |
266 |
| NSW BLUES |
5/331 |
(First Innings)
| Matthew Clarke |
107* |
| Dominic Thornely |
86 |
| Matthew Phelps |
62 |
| Andrew Bichel |
2/52 |
|
@ the SCG, Sydney
Match Summary :: Day Three |
The pair added 176 runs before Thornely's 131-ball innings of 86 was cut
short when he was caught behind at 4-299 off the bowling of Michael Kasprowicz,
while Andrew Bichel snagged Brad Haddin LBW six balls later.
Clarke continued to push on as he passed his century in 179 balls on the
penultimate over of the day, with Aaron O'Brien (13no) with him at the crease in
a partnership that has yielded 31 runs.
Bichel is the only multiple wicket-taker in the innings with 2-52 from 17
overs.
Full scorecard available
here.
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