Rain washes out Tigers’ push for win

TASMANIA’S hopes of a Sheffield Shield win against reigning champion Victoria have been washed away in the Melbourne rain, with the sides fighting out an MCG draw.

Chasing 453 to win, the Bushrangers were 5-106 when play was abandoned because of bad light with 12 overs remaining on a rain-disrupted final day.

Only 24 overs were bowled for the day with persistent showers delaying any action until after tea.

Glenn Maxwell resumed on 20 and was 45 not out when the players left the ground.

With a succession of partners including Test batsman Peter Handscomb (13) falling cheaply around him, Maxwell showed plenty of resolve as Victoria looked to grind out a draw.

But it appears it will be too late to count towards his chances of batting at No.6 in the Ashes.

Victorian skipper Handscomb said Maxwell’s innings yesterday showed admirable resolve.

“He came out today and did exactly what the team required, played beautifully, put his shots away when needed and played them when he thought it was appropriate,” he said.

Time proved to be Maxwell’s enemy on Wednesday as Alex Doolan (247 n.o.) and Tim Paine (71 n.o.) set the foundations for what could have been a towering first win of the shield season.

Doolan spent almost nine hours at the crease on the way to his highest first-class score as Tasmania declared at 2-424.

Doolan was yesterday named man of the match for his efforts.