Match: 9th Match, Sheffield Shield 2025-26
Date: October 28-31, 2025 (4-day match)
Venue: Western Australian Cricket Association Ground (WACA), Perth
Start Time: 7:30 AM local time (1:00 PM ACDT)
Toss: Not yet done
Umpires: Andrew Crozier, Ben Treloar
Match Referee: Kent Hannam
Live Streaming: Kayo Sports, cricket.com.au, Cricket Australia Live app
Match Situation
Both Western Australia and South Australia are desperate for their first win of the Sheffield Shield 2025-26 season. After two rounds of matches, both teams sit at the bottom of the table with just two points each from draws and losses.
Western Australia have lost two consecutive games – a 74-run defeat against New South Wales in their opener, followed by a narrow three-run loss against Tasmania. South Australia also struggled in their opening matches against Victoria and Queensland, making this a must-win encounter for both sides.
Expected Playing XIs
Western Australia (Likely XI)
Source: cricket.com.au squad announcement, October 27, 2025
Cameron Green returns to the WA squad after missing the Tasmania match with side soreness, which is a major boost for the hosts. Here’s the likely XI:
- Cameron Bancroft
- Sam Whiteman (c)
- Jayden Goodwin
- Hilton Cartwright
- Cooper Connolly
- Cameron Green
- Aaron Hardie
- Joel Curtis
- Matthew Kelly
- Corey Rocchiccioli
- Cameron Gannon
South Australia (Likely XI)
Source: sportscafe.in, SACA squad announcement, October 27, 2025
Key players include captain Nathan McSweeney, with Brendan Doggett and Ben Manenti returning to strengthen the bowling attack. The probable XI includes:
- Conor McInerney
- Henry Hunt
- Nathan McSweeney (c)
- Jason Sangha
- Jake Lehmann
- Harry Nielsen – Wicketkeeper
- Ben Manenti
- Liam Scott
- Nathan McAndrew
- Lloyd Pope
- Jordan Buckingham / Brendan Doggett
Players to Watch
| Role | Western Australia | South Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Key Batter | Cameron Green | Nathan McSweeney |
| Emerging Batter | Cooper Connolly | Jason Sangha |
| Wicketkeeper | Cameron Bancroft | Harry Nielsen |
| Lead Bowler | Matthew Kelly | Nathan McAndrew |
| Spin Option | Corey Rocchiccioli | Lloyd Pope |
Why Watch Them?
Cameron Green – The Australian Test allrounder is looking to prove his fitness ahead of the Ashes series, particularly his return to bowling. His form will be closely watched by national selectors.
Nathan McSweeney – The SA captain needs to lead from the front with the bat after a difficult start to the season.
Nathan McAndrew – Last season’s leading wicket-taker with 40 scalps will be crucial for South Australia’s bowling attack.
Cooper Connolly – The young left-arm spinner recently impressed in Australia’s ODI team and offers WA a valuable all-round option.
Pitch and Weather Report
WACA Pitch Conditions
The WACA Ground is known for its consistent pace and bounce, creating favorable conditions for fast bowlers. The pitch at the WACA is regarded as one of the quickest and bounciest in the world, with the afternoon sea-breeze (Fremantle Doctor) making it attractive for pace and swing bowlers.
Expected conditions:
- Fast and bouncy surface with good carry
- Early assistance for seamers
- Quick outfield favoring strokeplay
- Batting first historically offers a slight advantage
Weather Forecast
Late October in Perth typically brings warm, dry conditions. Temperatures are expected to range between 15-25°C during the match, with minimal chance of rain. Clear skies should allow uninterrupted play across all four days.
What to Expect
This match could be a high-scoring affair if batters can weather the early storm from fast bowlers. The WACA’s pace and bounce will test both batting lineups, especially against quality seamers like Kelly and McAndrew.
Key Battles:
- WA’s pace attack vs SA’s top order
- Cameron Green’s fitness and form
- Spin battle: Rocchiccioli vs Pope
- Pressure of chasing first win
Both teams desperately need points to climb the Sheffield Shield ladder. Expect aggressive cricket as captains try different strategies to break their winless streaks.
Match Prediction
Likely Outcome: Close contest with the team winning the toss having an advantage
The toss will be crucial at the WACA. Batting first on a good surface before it deteriorates could be the winning move. Western Australia have home advantage and Cameron Green’s return strengthens their squad significantly.
Edge: Western Australia (55-45) – Home conditions and Green’s return give them a slight advantage, but both teams are evenly matched on paper.
Where to Watch: Catch all the action live on Kayo Sports, cricket.com.au, and the Cricket Australia Live app. Entry to the WACA Ground costs $10 for adults, with tickets available at the gate.
Note: Playing XIs are based on squad announcements and recent team selections. Final teams will be confirmed at the toss. Weather predictions are based on seasonal averages for Perth in late October.