South Australia secured a dramatic two-run victory over Western Australia, as the defending champions collapsed in spectacular fashion, losing 7 for 31 in their chase of 166 at Sydney's Cricket Central. A five-wicket haul by Nathan McAndrew was instrumental in their downfall, leaving Western Australia winless after two games in the One-Day Cup.
After suffering an upset against New South Wales just two days earlier, Western Australia seemed poised for victory at 133 for 3, well on track to overhaul South Australia's modest total. However, McAndrew’s career-best List A figures of 5 for 40 triggered a collapse that saw Western Australia bowled out for 164 in the 38th over.
Despite the loss, Bryce Jackson stood out with an exceptional performance, claiming 6 for 31, the best figures in the history of Western Australia's participation in the competition. Jackson, touted as a rising star, had only made his debut last season after multiple injuries delayed his first appearance until he was 24. Resting Jhye Richardson gave Jackson the chance to shine, and he didn't disappoint, starting by dismissing Henry Hunt with a beautifully swinging delivery. He followed up by removing Mackenzie Harvey and Daniel Drew in quick succession, and later returned to take the key wickets of Liam Scott and Drew, who had earlier steadied the innings with knocks of 46 and 49, respectively.
As Western Australia began their chase, early wobbles didn't deter them, with Ashton Turner taking charge by hitting a six off Henry Thornton and scoring freely, making a bonus-point win look like the likely outcome. But the tide turned sharply when Sam Whiteman fell for 48, pulling Wes Agar into the hands of Thomas Kelly at deep square leg.
From there, McAndrew and Ben Manenti dismantled the Western Australian batting lineup. McAndrew dismissed Ashton Agar, Baxter Holt, and then quickly accounted for Matthew Kelly and AJ Tye, leaving the champions still needing 10 runs for victory.
With Turner still at the crease on 53, Western Australia had a glimmer of hope, but Manenti struck, having Turner caught behind, leaving just Lance Morris and Jackson to score six more runs. Jackson, seeking to cap off his stellar day, was stumped while trying to drive Manenti, sealing the win for South Australia, their first over Western Australia since 2017.