NSW are well poised to take a significant first-innings lead and push their claims for a berth in the Sheffield Shield final after dismissing Tasmania for just 237 at Bankstown Oval on Thursday.
The Blues' spin duo of Steve O'Keefe (3-37) and Nathan Lyon (3-70) continued their recent good form and were the chief destroyers on a slow first-day wicket in Sydney.
In reply, the Blues reached 0-4 after facing just two overs.
Jordan Silk top-scored for Tasmania with 54, sharing in an 84-run partnership with former Australia Test opener Ed Cowan (32), but Tasmania lost wickets at regular intervals throughout the day.
Despite the absence of skipper Moises Henriques - a late withdrawal with a groin injury - NSW's leading wicket-taker O'Keefe says the Blues are primed following their costly seven-wicket loss to ladder leaders Western Australia last weekend in Newcastle.
"We have a great opportunity on a good wicket to bounce back after our effort against WA," said O'Keefe.
"I thought we did well to bowl Tasmania out on what is a pretty good wicket.
"There are some hungry guys in the sheds looking to put their hand up and, if they get in, make a big score."
It could have been even worse for Tasmania but Andrew Fekete (19 not out) and Jackson Bird (20) combined for a 42-run stand for the final wicket.
With seven Tasmanian batsman reaching 20 or more, Silk lamented his side's inability to push on.
"We were in a great position there, but to give them two wickets before the (lunch) break really pulled the momentum back," he said.
"It is a bit frustrating and been the story of our season to not win those key moments."
NSW likely need a win in the penultimate round match if they are to stay in touch with frontrunners WA and Victoria and maintain their hopes of a spot in the Shield final.
Share
