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An exceptional unbeaten century from Jake Lehmann, combined with a career-best 83 from Liam Scott, propelled South Australia to a thrilling victory against Victoria, securing them their first home Sheffield Shield final since 2016. South Australia successfully chased down 300, winning with four wickets to spare at the Junction Oval, thanks to a pivotal 148-run partnership between Lehmann and Scott.
South Australia
South Australia had been struggling at 108 for 4, but Lehmann and Scott's resilient stand was the cornerstone of the chase. Henry Hunt also contributed a solid 66, including a 54-run stand with Lehmann. Despite a couple of late wickets from Scott Boland, who threatened to turn the game in Victoria's favor, the home side held firm and saw the chase through.
Lehmann’s century, his 12th in first-class cricket, was especially significant, marking a milestone of 5000 first-class runs. Reflecting on his innings, Lehmann described it as one of his best, particularly given the context of the chase in the fourth innings, which is widely considered the most difficult phase to score runs.
"It’s definitely up there," Lehmann told ESPNcricinfo after the match. "Anytime you get a hundred in a winning team, especially in the fourth innings, it’s a special feeling. But it’s not just about my hundred—it’s about the vibe of the boys, the belief in the team. We knew if we got into the final couple of hours, we could chase this down."
South Australia’s coach, Ryan Harris, praised both Lehmann and Scott for their contributions. He was especially impressed by Scott, who had not only taken 4 for 49 with the ball on day three but also delivered with the bat in the chase. Harris acknowledged Scott's evolution as a player, highlighting his key role as a No. 6 batsman.
"I think his niche is probably No. 6 in this current set-up," Harris said. "He’s gone from being a holder to a wicket-taker. That has come from game time, learning his role, and progressing as a player and person. He’s become a huge player for us."
