Western Australia suffered a nine-wicket defeat to Tasmania at the WACA Ground after being bowled out for 115 in their second One-Day Cup match of the season.
The Tigers needed fewer than 17 overs to complete the chase, with their bowlers having exposed another collapse in the WA top order. The result followed an abandoned tournament opener against South Australia on Friday night, when WA had also been placed under pressure.
Riley Meredith led Tasmania’s attack with four wickets for 11 runs from eight overs, while Test all-rounder Beau Webster claimed three for 31 from 7.2 overs.
Cam Bancroft and Ashton Turner both made 19 as WA attempted to rebuild, but neither could convert their efforts into a substantial score. The home side was dismissed in the 31st over, with its tail unable to repeat the rescue effort seen in the previous match.
Tasmania’s chase was swiftly put on course by Mitch Owen, who struck Mahli Beardman for two boundaries within his first 10 deliveries. Owen eventually fell for 43 from 29 balls after attempting another attacking shot.
Beau Webster, unbeaten on 41, then joined Caleb Jewell, who finished 26 not out, to guide Tasmania to victory without further alarm.
WA’s home meeting with Queensland next month now takes on added importance in their bid to remain in contention for a place in the One-Day Cup final. The match will follow their opening Sheffield Shield fixture.
