WESTERN Australia has emerged victorious in its 2022/23 Sheffield Shield clash against the New South Wales Blues thanks to a terrific bowling performance from Lance Morris.

Morris claimed a total of nine wickets over two innings, ripping through the Blues batting order some serious pace as his side claimed a convincing win to start their Sheffield Shield campaign.

Far and away the most damaging player on the field, Morris was rightfully named the player of the match, and will be giving New South Wales’ batting order nightmares in the coming weeks.

Lance Morris vs. NSW Blues

First Innings – 5/36
Second Innings – 4/46

The fast bowler could not have asked for a better start to the first class match, dismissing both openers for New South Wales. His placement of the ball and perfect amount of seam saw quite a few unplayable delivereies, drawing edges galore.

Daniel Hughes tried a cover drive, but it ended up being chipped to mid off as Morris and W.A. got on the board. Blake Nikitaras was left bamboozled by a bit of extra width from Morris, and was sent packing by a screamer from Joel Paris.

Jason Sangha looked to get going after coming in at four, but Morris again got the better of his opponent, forcing the batsman into a poke shot which was caught behind by the keeper. Morris would not stop there, knocking over Baxter Holt, who simply could not get a read on the ball.

New South Wales’ batsmen continued to be brought undone by Morris’ pace, with Chris Tremain edging the ball to slip, as W.A. took control of the match.

Morris got off to the perfect start again in the second innings, dismissing Blues opener Hughes again with his blistering pace. While he produced some serious speed, Hughes in particular copped the worst of it, with Morris’ delivery bouncing up and nicking his bat before being caught by short leg.

Teammate Aaron Hardie took a pair of wickets in the top order, but it was not long before Morris got involved again. He sent in an absolute rocket, which slammed into the pads of Matthew Gilkes, who was sent on his way with a plumb LBW.

Experience campaigner Nathan Lyon came in to try and smack the Western Australians around a bit and conjure some much-needed runs, but Morris drew the edge again, giving the slips plenty of action across the innings.

Holt gave NSW a spark in the middle order, and was looking likely to keep the Blues’ chances alive before Morris struck again. His fourth and final wicket came as Holt got under one of his deliveries, before finally being caught and finishing the match.

Five wickets in the first innings was a career-best haul for Morris, who looks set for a big year at the WACA, mastering the turf to perfection.