Philippe helps WA to valuable Shield lead
Young talent Josh Philippe is on the verge of his second first-class century as Western Australia aim to build a healthy lead over Queensland in their Sheffield Shield clash at the Gabba.
The 24-year-old wicketkeeper, who has played three ODIs for Australia, is unbeaten on 93 at lunch on day two, with his side 5-207, a first-innings lead of 78 runs.
He shared a 99-run stand with Test allrounder Cameron Green (53), who was one of Mark Steketee's two scalps in Thursday's first session.
The Queensland paceman stepped up in the absence of teammate Michael Neser, who hasn't played any part in the game since leaving the field with a minor hamstring twinge late on Wednesday.
Steketee (2-49) had Green edging to second slip before clean bowling Hilton Cartwright (zero) a few overs later.
After blunting the attack on day one, Philippe took a more aggressive approach and struck 10 fours and two sixes in the 182-ball knock.
He'll resume alongside tailender Jhye Richardson (13 not out) after the break.
WA, who resumed at 2-108, could be without Shaun Marsh who retired hurt on day one with a calf injury and Joel Paris who suffered a hamstring problem.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the visitors rolled Queensland for just 129 in their first innings, with Lance Morris taking 4-21.
The Bulls' innings was headlined by in-form Test hopeful Usman Khawaja, who scored 70 in challenging conditions.
