Sheffield Shield: Tim Paine scores first century since 2006 as Tasmania edge ahead of Western Australia

Tim Paine hit his first ton since smashing 215 against Justin Langer and Western Australia way back in 2006 to enable Tasmania to take a first innings lead in their Sheffield Shield clash.

Tim Paine finally cracked the ton after a 13-year hiatus.

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Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine has crafted just the second century of his Sheffield Shield career to end a 13-year drought and put Tasmania in a strong position against Western Australia at the WACA Ground.

During a 111-run partnership for the ninth wicket, Paine was able to reach the long-awaited milestone thanks to stout assistance from Lawrence Neil-Smith, who was 39no when Tasmania were dismissed for 397.

Paine, who started day three on 18, acknowledged the sparse crowd in an understated manner, shortly before tea.

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Tim Paine finally cracked the ton after a 13-year hiatus.

Coincidentally, the WACA Ground was also the scene of his maiden first class century in 2006, a mammoth 215 against a Western Australian side including current national coach Justin Langer.

Paine was ultimately dismissed for a 208-ball, 121 featuring 13 boundaries and a six.

The wicketkeeper and Neil-Smith enabled Tasmania to lead by 60 on the first innings after the visitors resumed their pursuit of 337 in 5-217. Caleb Jewell (52) also combined effectively with Paine before the skipper took centre stage.

A back cut off left-arm spinner Ashton Agar allowed a subdued Paine to raise his bat before he put his head down.

Jhye Richardson took 3-58 for the hosts while Mitchell Marsh claimed 2-60 and Cameron Green 2-72.

The trio may face a heavy workload in the second innings after quick bowler Joel Paris (1-64) left the field with a tight hamstring.

Originally published as Sheffield Shield: Tim Paine scores first century since 2006 as Tasmania edge ahead of Western Australia