Harris hundred hauls Redbacks ahead

South Australia 6 for 284 (Harris 119*, Deitz 59) v Tasmania
Scorecard

Daniel Harris provided the necessary grit and earned a slight advantage for South Australia on a hard-fought opening day against Tasmania. The opener Harris raised his maiden first-class century and was patient throughout, studying 295 balls over an unbeaten 119, which helped the Redbacks to 6 for 284.

The innings also received a boost from Shane Deitz, who struck 10 fours in his 59, and the push was required after some early stumbles. Graham Manou, South Australia's new captain, won the toss and batted, watching two wickets fall by the time they reached 13, all of which were scored by Matthew Elliott.

Mark Cosgrove fell lbw playing back to Brett Geeves two balls after Elliott edged to Travis Birt and when Luke Butterworth chipped in with a couple of neat wickets they were 4 for 139. Harris and Deitz loosened Tasmania's hold during a stand of 107, but there were a couple of setbacks late in the day when Ben Hilfenhaus captured Deitz and Manou with the second new ball.

The performance of Harris, a 28-year-old doctor, allowed the Redbacks to maintain their hopes of staying in touch with the leaders. New South Wales and Victoria are on top with 32 points while South Australia are fourth on 16 and need three outright wins in the remaining games. Tasmania's plan to defend their title is over and they are out of contention along with Queensland.