How Smith, Starc, and Abbott Elevate New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield

In the Sheffield Shield, for New South Wales (NSW), their recent performance against Victoria at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the 2024-25 season once again demonstrated why their squad is one of the most formidable in the competition. Key players like Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott, and Steve Smith played crucial roles, elevating NSW’s bowling strength and maintaining their competitive edge in the contest.

The match against Victoria saw a dominant performance from fast bowler Sean Abbott, who led the charge for NSW with figures of 4-50. Abbott's discipline and persistence wreaked havoc on the Victorian batting line-up, reducing them to a vulnerable 9-259 at stumps on day one. His spell included the dismissals of key players, including Sam Harper and Will Sutherland for ducks, adding to his growing reputation as one of the most consistent and dangerous bowlers in domestic cricket.

Abbott’s efforts were particularly significant in the final session of play when Victoria lost five wickets for just 21 runs. After tea, NSW capitalized on the swinging conditions, as Abbott and Starc combined to dismantle Victoria’s middle order. Abbott’s 20 overs were the most by any NSW bowler, and his perseverance paid off with vital breakthroughs at crucial moments.

While Abbott was the pick of the bowlers, Mitchell Starc was equally effective, taking 1-35 in his spell. As a returning Test paceman, Starc's experience shone through, particularly in his battle with Marcus Harris, who was one of the key figures for Victoria. Harris, who had been in strong form in the opening match of the season with a 143 and 52 against Tasmania, was one of the players in contention for Australia's opening spot for the upcoming Test series against India.

Starc's delivery to dismiss Harris was a classic piece of fast bowling. The left-hander was caught down the leg side, an indication of Starc's ability to bowl full, challenging deliveries that force the batsman into mistakes. Harris’ dismissal was a key moment, putting the brakes on Victoria’s scoring and exposing their lower order to Abbott’s relentless pressure.

Both Starc and Abbott kept things tight, rarely offering loose balls, forcing the Victorian batsmen to battle for every run. Peter Handscomb (64) and Campbell Kellaway (55) fought back with a 101-run stand for the third wicket, but they were eventually undone by Abbott and Starc, with Handscomb nicking one to Smith at second slip.

Steve Smith, one of the best batsmen in the world, may not have made an impact with the ball, but his presence as a slip fielder, especially when Abbott took Handscomb’s wicket, was invaluable. Smith’s hands are known to be safe in the slips, and his ability to bring calm and concentration to the field is essential for a side with aspirations of winning the Shield. His influence extends beyond his own performances, as he helps bring out the best in those around him, including the bowlers.

For the team, Abbott and Starc's performances are a statement of intent. While Nathan Lyon, the Test spinner, bowled a steady 1-60 from his 19 overs, it was Abbott and Starc who truly set the tone for the match.

With NSW’s bowlers leading the charge, the team has shown their strength in the opening game of the Sheffield Shield season. Abbott’s persistence, Starc’s class, and Smith’s fielding and leadership combine to make NSW a formidable unit.