Perth: Former Zimbabwe Test batsman Murray Goodwin celebrated his 30th birthday with a match-saving 176 to thwart Tasmania's drive for victory over Western Australia on the final day of a Sheffield Shield clash on Wednesday. Goodwin remained rock-firm despite the intense heat to complete a marathon seven-and- a-half hour knock producing 28 boundaries at the WACA Ground. After a lean run, the right-hander who played in 19 Tests for Zimbabwe needed a big score to be assured of retaining his place in the Western Australian line-up. Resuming on the final day with a precarious 135 for three, a lead of only eight, Western Australia occupied the crease until stumps to deny Tasmania its first shield win of the season. The home team finished with 405 in its second innings. Goodwin was well supported by young players Beau Casson (35), Luke Ronchi (33) and Adam Voges (32). Goodwin's knock produced his 22nd century in first-class ranks. It was his third best score in senior company, behind his 203 not out for Sussex against Nottinghamshire in a county championship game in 2001 and 194 for Zimbabwe against Gloucestershire when it toured England the previous year.

Tags: cricket, perth, zimbabwe, murray goodwin, tasmania, western australia, sheffield shield, waca ground, beau casson, luke ronchi, adam voges, sussex, nottinghamshire, gloucestershire, england.