Blues in final as Abbott runs hot

NEW South Wales are into their first Sheffield Shield final in five years after an incredible spell of bowling from Sean Abbott demolished Tasmania on day four at Hobart’s Bellerive Oval.

Needing a victory to stave off Western Australia’s push for a berth in the final, the Blues were facing a nervous last day yesterday but instead came away with a comfortable 149-run winning margin.

Despite Tasmania showing plenty of batting resolve in recent matches, the home side crumbled and were removed for 120 within a session.

Abbott was the chief destroyer, picking a perfect time to return career-best figures of 7-45 as Tasmania chased an achievable target of 270.

NSW elected to declare overnight at 5-149 after Western Australia grabbed a temporary hold on second spot with their three-day win over Queensland.

Tasmania’s in-form toporder were immediately in trouble, with Abbott’s seaming deliveries reducing the home side to 5-23. Matthew Wade scored 65 and was the only recognised batman to reach double figures.

Abbott duly combined with Trent Copeland (2-31) to roll through the tail as Tasmania were dismissed before the end of an elongated morning session.

NSW will meet Victoria in the five-day Shield final which commences next Thursday at Melbourne’s Junction Oval.