(Cricket news) Victory at the CitiPower Centre would guarantee either team – rivals in the last two Shield finals – a place in the decider against Tasmania, starting Thursday 21 March.
It is likely a draw would also be enough for WA given they enter the contest in second place. This outcome, however, depends on first innings bonus points.
Hardie is in line to return from a calf injury sustained during the Shield match against Tasmania last month.
The powerful allrounder has been an important contributor when fit, tallying 288 runs at 41.14 and 11 wickets at 25.27 in five Shield games this season.
Agar would make his first red ball appearance of 2023-24 if picked in the starting side, after playing an important role in WA’s triumphant Marsh One-Day Cup campaign.
Hilton Cartwright, who injured his finger before day two of the recent Shield win versus Queensland, features in the 14-player squad, as does prospective debutant and Midland-Guildford skipper Keaton Critchell.
Talented young batter Teague Wyllie is the only omission.
While Tasmania are clear frontrunners to host the Shield final, WA remain a mathematical chance of finishing first.
WA Marsh Sheffield Shield Squad – Game 10
Sam Whiteman – captain
Ashton Agar
Cameron Bancroft
Hilton Cartwright
Keaton Critchell
Cameron Gannon
Jayden Goodwin
Aaron Hardie
Liam Haskett
Josh Inglis
Joel Paris
Corey Rocchiccioli
D’Arcy Short
Charlie Stobo
IN: Ashton Agar, Aaron Hardie
OUT: Teague Wyllie (omitted)
MATCH DETAILS
Marsh Sheffield Shield – Game 10
VIC v WA
Monday 11 March – Thursday 14 March. First ball 7:30AM, WST.
CitiPower Centre, Melbourne
LIVE: Kayo, Cricket.com.au, 91.3 SportFM
