South Australia vs Western Australia – OneDay Cup Match Preview (24 September 2025)

Venue: Karen Rolton Oval, Adelaide
Time: 01:30 PM (GMT) / 09:30 PM (Local Time, Adelaide)
Series: Australia Domestic OneDay Cup 2025-26
Match No.: 6th Match of the tournament

Match Context

The sixth match of the 2025-26 Australia Domestic OneDay Cup will see South Australia (SAU) host Western Australia (WAU) at the Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide. This early-season clash is crucial for both teams as they look to establish momentum in the new tournament format.

South Australia will be eager to bounce back after a heavy 131-run defeat against New South Wales in their previous match, played on 20 September. In contrast, Western Australia will arrive in Adelaide with a mixed record—having lost narrowly to Queensland by two wickets in their last outing, but still with a chance to make a strong start to their campaign.

Team Form and Strengths

South Australia (SAU)

South Australia suffered a comprehensive loss to New South Wales in their first match of the tournament, managing just 112 in their first innings and being bowled out for 139 in the second. The team’s batting lineup struggled against disciplined bowling, and the bowling unit failed to make inroads.

Key Players:

• Matthew Short (Captain): The experienced all-rounder is expected to lead from the front with both bat and ball.
• Usman Khawaja: The former international batsman will be vital in stabilizing the innings.
• Trent Copeland: The experienced pacer could provide much-needed control and late-order pressure.

Strengths:

• A strong middle order that can rebuild if the top-order falters.
• Bowling depth with experienced pacers and spinners.

Weaknesses:

• Inability to post competitive totals in their previous match.
• Lack of consistent wicket-taking options in the powerplay.

Western Australia (WAU)

Western Australia’s performance against Queensland was a mixed bag. They posted a competitive total, but the chase was marred by a collapse in the middle overs. Their top order showed resilience, but the middle and lower order were inconsistent.

Key Players:

• Mitchell Marsh (Captain): The explosive all-rounder is a match-winner in any format, with the ability to change the game in an over.
• Heath Ferguson: The pace spearhead with excellent yorkers and ability to swing the ball.
• Adam Zampa: One of the most consistent spinners in the tournament, capable of taking wickets in clusters.

Strengths:

• Explosive batting at the top of the order.
• Clinical spin bowling in the middle overs.
• Experience in high-pressure chases.

Weaknesses:

• Vulnerable middle order in tight games.
• Bowling inconsistency when the ball is old.

Pitch and Playing Conditions

The Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide is known for its balanced nature, offering good bounce and carry for the pacers while also assisting spinners in the latter stages. With the weather generally pleasant in September, both teams can expect a fair contest between bat and ball.

However, the pitch may offer slightly more assistance to the pacers early on, especially if the match is played under the lights. Spinners could come into their own in the 25-40 overs window.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

South Australia and Western Australia have a long-standing rivalry in the domestic arena. In recent OneDay encounters, Western Australia has had the upper hand, particularly in 2023 and 2024. However, South Australia has shown the ability to perform well at home, and the Karen Rolton Oval has often been a fortress for them.

Prediction and Key Matchups

This match could go either way, but Western Australia’s explosive batting and experienced spin attack might give them the edge. However, South Australia’s home advantage and disciplined approach could make them a tough proposition.

Key Matchups to Watch:

• Mitchell Marsh (WAU) vs South Australia’s spinners: If WAU can accelerate in the middle overs, they could easily overtake the target.
• Usman Khawaja (SAU) vs Heath Ferguson (WAU): The battle between the experienced opener and the accurate pacer could set the tone.
• Trent Copeland (SAU) vs WAU’s middle order: The South Australia pacer could exploit any weakness in WAU’s middle overs.

Final Verdict

This is a high-stakes match with both teams looking to build momentum in the tournament. While Western Australia possess the firepower to win under pressure, South Australia’s home advantage and disciplined approach make them a dangerous opponent.

Prediction:
Western Australia to win by 8-10 runs, but South Australia will put up a strong fight.

Stay tuned for live updates and match highlights.
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