Hussey and Finch move Victoria closer to final

Victoria 8 for 358 (Hussey 140, Finch 102) lead Tasmania 222 by 136 runs
Scorecard

	David Hussey led the way for Victoria with 140 © Getty Images Enlarge
Related Links Report : 1st day bulletin Players/Officials: Aaron Finch | Adam Griffith | David Hussey Matches: Victoria v Tasmania at Melbourne Series/Tournaments: Sheffield Shield | Australian Domestic Season Teams: Australia | Tasmania | Victoria

David Hussey and Aaron Finch raised centuries to give Victoria first-innings points as they closed in on hosting rights for next week's final against Queensland. Hussey's 140 and Finch's 102 pushed the Bushrangers towards 8 for 358 as they accounted easily for Tasmania's 222.

Victoria now lead Queensland by five points and the Bulls are in trouble at the Gabba. The Bushrangers have no concerns and can enjoy their fine-tuning before the game starting on Wednesday.

Hussey and Finch collected Victoria's biggest partnership of the season with 212 and the combination was broken when Adam Griffith removed Finch shortly after tea. Griffith ended Hussey's stay after 17 fours and a six when he was lbw and the bowler finished with 3 for 75.

Matthew Wade, the wicketkeeper, moved to 33 at stumps as Victoria increased their lead to 136 despite the loss of two late wickets. Tasmania were also hindered by a side strain to Tim Paine, leaving Xavier Doherty to captain the team and Alex Doolan behind the stumps.