North century sets up the West

Western Australia 4 for 247 (North 103*, Marsh 70) v Queensland
Scorecard

Marcus North continued his Ashes form by posting an unbeaten 103 as Western Australia started their Sheffield Shield campaign strongly against Queensland at the WACA. The Warriors, who won a tight FR Cup match on Sunday, moved to 4 for 247 at stumps after the captain North took control.

North scored two centuries during the Ashes series, when he secured a spot at No. 6, and he backed up with another heavy contribution after entering at No. 4 with his side 2 for 85. The Warriors were patient during the first two sessions, but North lifted his pace after tea.

He struck 75 in the final session, including a four over mid-on off Ben Cutting to go to 99. Four balls later he glanced Cutting to fine leg to reach three figures and walked off following a 160-ball stay which included a six and 16 boundaries.

Scott Walter, playing his second match, picked up the first two wickets, beginning with Wes Robinson lbw for 10 after Queensland won the toss. He followed up in the second session by yorking Luke Towers (43) before Marsh and North combined for a 119-run partnership that strengthened the hosts' position. Marsh showed commitment in reaching 70 from 194 deliveries before he played on to Lee Carseldine, while Adam Voges was caught behind late in the day to Cutting.