Labuschagne’s ton and Swepson’s seven-for power Queensland into final contention

A masterful century from Marnus Labuschagne and a devastating spell from Mitchell Swepson propelled Queensland to a thumping bonus-point victory over South Australia at the Gabba, keeping their hopes of reaching the final alive.

Labuschagne’s superb 126 — his fourth one-day hundred of the season — anchored Queensland’s innings as they recovered from early trouble to post a competitive 260. In reply, South Australia collapsed to 135 all out in just 26.1 overs, undone by Swepson’s brilliant 7 for 28 from 7.1 overs.

The emphatic win lifted Queensland to second on the table, with their fate now hinging on the outcome of New South Wales’ chase against Tasmania.

Labuschagne steadies early wobble

Queensland’s innings began shakily as they slumped to 41 for 3 in the 11th over. Sam Heazlett, Hugo Burdon and Jimmy Peirson all fell cheaply, placing the hosts under early pressure.

Labuschagne responded with a commanding 137-ball knock, striking 11 fours and a six in a display of patience and authority. He found solid support in Lachlan Hearne, who compiled a boundary-less 41 from 62 deliveries as the pair added 92 runs for the fourth wicket to steady the innings.

Hearne was eventually dismissed by South Australia captain Nathan McSweeney, but Labuschagne continued to control proceedings. Hugh Weibgen contributed a useful 26 from 35 balls before Labuschagne was dismissed in the 48th over.

Legspinner Lloyd Pope was the pick of South Australia’s bowlers with 3 for 53 from his 10 overs, while Henry Thornton and Nathan McAndrew also claimed multiple wickets. The visitors’ effort was hindered by the early loss of left-arm quick Campbell Thompson, who limped off injured during his third over.

Swepson dismantles South Australia

Needing a bonus point to stay in contention for the final, South Australia’s chase never gained momentum. Only Mackenzie Harvey offered significant resistance, top-scoring with 72 from 66 deliveries.

Alex Carey made 36 from 40 balls and was the only other batter to reach double figures. His innings ended in unusual fashion when he drove a return catch to Swepson and initially stood his ground, appearing uncertain whether the ball had carried cleanly.

Swepson proved unplayable, slicing through the middle and lower order to register remarkable figures of 7 for 28. His match-winning spell ensured South Australia were bundled out inside 27 overs, sealing a comprehensive victory for Queensland.

With a dominant all-round performance at a crucial stage of the season, Queensland now await other results to confirm whether their surge will be enough to secure a place in the final.