TRENT Copeland helped his New South Wales side to a piece of cricketing history on Friday and at the same time reinforced his status as one of the most consistently strong bowlers in the Sheffield Shield competition.
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The Bathurst seamer took seven wickets for the match to help the Blues to a 104-run outright win over Western Australia in the inaugural first class match held at Perth Stadium.
That historic win elevated the Blues into second place on the shield ladder ahead of Western Australia and means they have the chance to snatch first should they topple South Australia in the next round.
Returning to the Blues line-up after missing the round four match due to the presence of Test trio Pat Cummins, Mitch Starc and Josh Hazelwood, Copeland continued his strong run of form with the ball.
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After NSW had made 261 in its first knock, Copeland helped his side to first innings honours as the hosts were all out for 198. His 4-52 off 22.1 overs included claiming Mitch Marsh leg before wicket for six.
NSW made 253 in its second innings, leaving Western Australia to chase 317 for victory. But Copeland took three wickets late on the third day to help spark a batting collapse.
The hosts slipped to 6-64 and while Marcus Stoinis hit a brave 81, it was not enough to save his side. Western Australia was all out for 212.
Copeland now has 23 wickets for the season at the impressive average of 16.6.
Remarkably only once in his last 10 innings for the Blues has the Bathurst talent failed to take at least three wickets.