AN unbeaten half century from Bathurst product Trent Copeland has helped the NSW Blues post a competitive total in their opening 2018-19 Sheffield Shield innings of the season.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
NSW were in serious trouble in the second day of their match against hosts South Australia Redbacks when Copeland arrived at the crease with the score at 8-147.
Copeland hit seven fours and a six on his way to 55 not out. His six brought up the half century.
The Bathurst talent joined forces with tailender Sean Abbott (27) to put on a crucial 64-run stand for the final wicket.
It was an innings which belonged to Central West talents. Only a 60 from Cowra opener Dan Hughes bettered Copeland’s score.
Keep up to date with the latest sports news by clicking here.
NSW had started the day on 3-124, after rain had eaten into much of the opening day’s play, but lost 5-23 in a nightmare collapse.
The Copeland-Abbott partnership gave NSW a big bailout.
Copeland’s great day continued with the ball in hand.
He and Abbott opened the bowling after their big efforts with the willow and had the Redbacks under early pressure following the tea break.
Copeland managed to trap opener Jake Weatherald in front LBW for 14 runs.
Abbott claimed a scalp of his own immediately after when he had Conor McInerey caught in the slips for 8.
Redbacks were 2-51 after 16 overs.
Copeland entered the match in great form with the ball having claimed figures of 3/27 and 2/19 from his Futures League game with the ACT.
Did you know that you can sign up for our free morning headlines email?
Alexander Grant
Part of the Western Advocate's sports desk in Bathurst.
Part of the Western Advocate's sports desk in Bathurst.
