Curtis the matchwinner after Kellaway's century stands alone

An inspired innings from Joel Curtis has powered Western Australia to a commanding eight-wicket victory over Victoria in their final One-Day Cup fixture at the WACA.

Curtis’ fluent 91 from 83 deliveries ensured WA chased down Victoria’s target with ease, capping off a strong finish to their campaign. The 26-year-old, who struck 75 in a thrilling one-wicket win over Tasmania earlier this month, once again anchored the innings before falling agonisingly short of a century. His extra-cover drive was brilliantly caught by Matt Short with just 37 runs still required for victory.

Curtis shared a pivotal 134-run second-wicket partnership with Cameron Bancroft, laying the foundation for a comfortable chase. Opener Sam Fanning set the early tempo with a brisk 31 off 31 balls, helping WA gain early momentum.

Earlier, Victoria’s innings was held together by a superb century from Campbell Kellaway. The 23-year-old compiled a match-high 105 from 117 balls after the visitors were sent in to bat. Kellaway’s resistance ended in the 49th over when he miscued a full toss from seamer Matthew Kelly to long-on, where Ashton Turner completed the catch.

Matt Short provided support with 35 from 43 deliveries, but Victoria struggled to generate sustained partnerships as WA’s bowlers maintained control.

Bryce Jackson continued his impressive form with the ball, claiming 4 for 40 after a four-wicket haul in his previous One-Day Cup appearance against Tasmania. Teenager Will Malajczuk also impressed, taking 2 for 48, including the prized wicket of Peter Handscomb for a duck.

The defeat confirmed a disappointing campaign for Victoria, who finished bottom of the ladder after reaching last season’s final. Western Australia ended their season in fourth position, signing off with a comprehensive victory built around Curtis’ match-winning knock.