Sheffield Shield Final, Queensland v Victoria, Gabba, March 2006.

Steve Frances | March 24, 2025

In late March 2006, the Sheffield Shield Final (then sponsored by Pura Milk) was held at the Gabba, Brisbane. Day 4 was an exceptional day of cricket. The Victorians had scored 354 in their first innings and then Queensland batted for most of Day 2 and 3 and were 3 wickets down for around 400 at the beginning of Day 4. The wicket was bone coloured and dry after Jimmy Maher had scored 223, Lachie Stevens 66, and Martin Love 169. Commencing at the crease were a young Shane Watson and Clinton Perren. Dirk Nannes, on debut for Victoria bowled the first overs of Day 4 from the Vulture St end. An early off cutter was edge by Watson straight to young Vic skipper, Cameron White at first slip, who spilled the chance.

Just after lunch the Bulls were 3-701, with Watson 141 and Perren 70 not out.

Watson 201, retired at tea, and Clinton Perren acknowledge the crowd at afternoon tea.

Coincidentally, Clinton’s son Zac, is playing in the 2024-2025 Premier Cricket Final at Allan Border Field, 19 years after his Dad scored 173 in the Shield Final.

After tea, Queensland went on to complete their innings at 6 for 900. Mitch Johnson and Andy Bichel dismissed the Vics to win the Shield.

The 24-25 Sheffield Shield Final is to be played this week at Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide. I wonder if we will see some high scoring this year!