(Cricket news) Victory versus the Tigers (fourth on the ladder) would see WA (third) reach their fifth consecutive 50-over final, keeping ambitions for a One-Day Cup three-peat alive.
A loss would spell the end of the reigning champions’ 2023-24 Marsh Cup campaign, with no regular season games remaining.
Uncapped trio Corey Rocchiccioli (26 years old), Bryce Jackson (24) and Keaton Critchell (27) all feature in the 13-player squad that landed in Hobart this afternoon.
Two-time Marsh Sheffield Shield winner Rocchiccioli has taken 55 wickets in 21 First Class games for WA, generating noteworthy bounce on a variety of surfaces across the country.
The off-spinner further honed his craft during KFC Big Bash League stints with Melbourne Renegades (BBL|12) and Melbourne Stars (BBL|13).
State-contracted quick Jackson, a tall right-armer, has impressed for Melville since returning to competitive bowling in December following a back stress injury.
Batting allrounder Critchell, meanwhile, enters the frame after starring for WA’s second XI against Tasmania last week.
The Midland-Guildford captain showcased his versatility with a patient 235-ball century in the first innings before thumping 107 from 122 deliveries in the second dig.
A useful pace-bowling option, Critchell has also taken 10 wickets across WA Premier Cricket formats in 2023-24.
Jason Behrendorff (Australia T20 team) is unavailable for Wednesday’s contest, while Sam Fanning and Liam Haskett were left out of the extended squad.
Victoria (first), NSW (second) and WA (third) all remain in contention to host the Marsh Cup final.
The Blues and Vics meet at North Sydney Oval the same time WA plays Tasmania, with regular season standings to be finalised on Wednesday afternoon.
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