In a rollercoaster day of Sheffield Shield action at the SCG, New South Wales found unexpected heroes in Beau Salzmann and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon—but not without fresh concerns over young gun Nick Konstas, who missed another key opportunity with the bat .
NSW in Trouble Early—Until Salzmann Stepped Up
After being bundled out cheaply in their first innings, New South Wales slumped to 28 for 3 in their second dig, with opener Nick Konstas falling for just 4 runs—his third single-digit score in as many innings. The 19-year-old prodigy, once hailed as a future Test mainstay, is now under growing scrutiny as confidence appears to wane.
Enter Beau Salzmann. The 23-year-old all-rounder, more known for his tidy medium pace, played the innings of his first-class life. Displaying composure beyond his years, Salzmann anchored the middle order with a gritty 76, stitching crucial partnerships that steadied the Blues’ ship and gave them a fighting chance against a dominant Western Australia side.
Nathan Lyon’s Late Flourish Keeps NSW Alive
Just when WA looked set to seize full control, Nathan Lyon—yes, the off-spinner with over 500 Test wickets—showed he’s still got plenty of fight in domestic cricket. Coming in at No. 8, Lyon smashed a rapid 42 off just 38 balls, laced with boundaries and trademark sweeps, to push NSW past the 200-run mark and into a position where they can now challenge for a draw—or even a surprise win.
His cameo wasn’t just about runs; it shifted momentum and frustrated WA’s bowlers, who had earlier looked unstoppable.
Matt Kelly Shines for WA Despite Early Blow
Western Australia’s day wasn’t without setbacks. Left-arm quick Joel Paris exited early with a suspected hamstring strain—a worrying sign ahead of Australia’s upcoming international window. But Matt Kelly more than filled the void.
Kelly was relentless, extracting bounce and movement from a wearing SCG pitch to finish with a superb 5 for 62. His spell included the key wickets of Jack Edwards and Sam Konstas, and he consistently tested the NSW top order with intelligent lines and variations in pace.
Key Performers: Day Two Breakdown
| Player | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Beau Salzmann | New South Wales | 76 runs (batting lifeline) |
| Nathan Lyon | New South Wales | 42 off 38 balls; crucial late runs |
| Matt Kelly | Western Australia | 5/62 – match-defining spell |
| Nick Konstas | New South Wales | 4 runs – third low score in a row |
What’s Next for NSW and Konstas?
While Salzmann and Lyon have given New South Wales hope, the Konstas conundrum looms large. Once the youngest Australian to score a first-class century, he’s now battling form and possibly mindset. Coaches may consider a temporary drop to grade cricket to rebuild confidence—though selectors will be watching closely.
For now, NSW will look to extend their second innings and set a competitive total. With Lyon also ready to bowl, the final two days promise high drama in what’s shaping up to be a classic Shield contest.
Sources
ESPNcricinfo: Salzmann, Lyon give New South Wales hope after Konstas misses again
Cricket Australia – Sheffield Shield Coverage