Bowlers, Hartley put Queensland on top

Chris Hartley guided Queensland to a handy first innings lead over Tasmania before claiming his 500th catch as the Bulls put themselves in a strong position to claim outright points on the final day of the Sheffield Shield match at the Gabba.

Hartley's unbeaten 68 helped lift the hosts to an advantage of 74. It was a margin that grew in significance as the Queensland bowlers put in an even and persistent display to work their way steadily through Tasmania's batting.

No visiting batsman was able to pass 40, even though no fewer than six made it into double figures - the exception being George Bailey, who followed up his first innings duck with five to complete a poor match.

Hartley accepted catches from the bowling of Jack Wildermuth, Charlie Hemphrey and Mark Steketee to reach his milestone, and will hope to celebrate it with the added sweetness of outright points on the final day. His opposite number Tom Triffitt, unbeaten on 39, is charged with leading Tasmania's rearguard.