Western Australia have been eliminated from the domestic one-day cup, with returning Test spearhead Mitchell Johnson unable to prevent a fourth defeat in five outings as Tasmania held on for a 15 run victory.
Johnson bowled with good pace in taking 2-41 as Tasmania posted a seemingly modest 9-222 on a challenging Drummoyne Oval wicket.
Champions in 2014, WA appeared on track for victory against Tasmania after a 102-run opening stand between Shaun Marsh (68) and Cameron Bancroft (42), only to then become bogged down in the middle of their innings.
Tasmania bowled superbly in the final overs, as James Faulkner (3-35) and Jackson Bird (1-41) helped bring about a collapse of 4-7 with WA forced to settle for 8-207 from their 50 overs.
"It was probably a good total to chase," Johnson said.
"We got ourselves in a really good position but just didn't go on with it and play smart cricket, so everyone is disappointed."
While much of the spotlight was on Johnson's first match since the Ashes series in August, it was little-known Tasmania No.3 Dom Michael who was the architect of the win.
Michael struck a patient 100 from 134 balls, while consistent opener Ben Dunk (51) offered fine support.
Johnson returned with renewed vigour in his second bowling spell, collecting the wickets of Jake Doran and Evan Gulbis in his eighth over.
"I didn't feel quite right early, but got into the rhythm throughout the game," Johnson said.
"My lead-up has been really good. I have had a fair bit of bowling but there is nothing like getting out in the middle.
"I was actually more nervous in the first over than I thought I would be.
"I definitely felt better as the game went on and I felt like I used the conditions pretty well."
Johnson will have just one Sheffield Shield match and one further one-day match to prepare for next month's first Test against New Zealand in Brisbane.
"Physically and mentally I feel great," Johnson said.
"I had been getting a little frustrated with myself in the nets. I wanted that competition of a game, so I really enjoyed that aspect."
The win ensures Tasmania leapfrog into second place in the standings to close on a spot in next Friday's elimination final.
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