Western Australia will be looking to bounce back from a narrow defeat in its opening game of the 2025-26 One-Day Cup when they take on South Australia at Karen Rolton Oval tomorrow.
Despite falling to a two-wicket defeat in the opening game, there were some promising signs for WA, highlighted by a superb innings from Joel Curtis, who hammered 116 off just 108 balls. The young left-hander showcased his composure and stroke-play ability in the knock and will again be a key figure as WA looks to topple the reigning champions.
Recent history between these sides has produced some dramatic finishes. In their most recent encounter last February at the WACA ground, South Australia managed a 44-run win after posting 208.
The two sides were also involved in a thrilling finish at the start of last season. South Australia scraped over the line by two runs, successfully defending 166. Bryce Jackson delivered a stunning spell of 6-31 on that occasion, underlining WA’s depth in bowling talent.
With both teams still chasing their first win of the 2025-26 One Day Cup season, tomorrow’s clash has already taken on extra significance.
While Joel Curtis top-scored on Sunday, Sam Whiteman also played a key role in WA’s imposing total of 321. The left-hander has notched scores of 48, 74, and 83 in his last three One-Day Cup innings and has consistently delivered against South Australia with scores of 89, 137* and 48 in their past three meetings.
WA returns home following tomorrow’s clash and ramp up preparations for the first Sheffield Shield match of the season against New South Wales at the WACA from October 4.