The NSW Blues’ Marsh Sheffield Shield match against Victoria at the Sydney Cricket Ground has ended in a draw as a result of persistent inclement weather.
Bad weather brings drawn result in historic SCG Shield clash
The battle between the two states, which commenced on February 16, took on extra significance as February 15 marked 170 years to the day since the very first cricket match at the hallowed ground.
Day one would see Jack Edwards produce a stellar knock to rescue the Blues from first-innings trouble, adding 99 runs before being dismissed agonisingly shy of a century.
Nathan Lyon marked his return to the NSW Men’s team with a five-wicket haul, though Victoria would declare with a healthy lead on day three, after applauding three separate centurions during their first innings.
Sam Konstas’ resilient second-innings stay ended on 35, before Nathan Lyon (17 not out) and Liam Hatcher (2 not out) were called from the middle due to bad light early on the final day.
The fixture would not recommence as rain and lightning persisted around Moore Park.
The two teams were contesting for the Hodge-Matthews Trophy. This trophy is contested bi-annually in recognition of the history of Sheffield Shield competition between the two states and the careers of Victorian great Brad Hodge and NSW legend Greg Matthews.
Victoria retain the trophy as current holders.
Read a full match report from cricket.com.au HERE
View the full scorecard from this fixture HERE
NSW now prepare to host Western Australia in the Marsh One-Day Cup Final this Sunday, February 25 at Cricket Central. Action is set to begin at 10.05am.