Deciding the shield final in the absence of an outright result would not necessarily address all the issues with current format. NSW would not have played any differently. They would have gone out & still tried to score 600+ & WA would try to do the same if they batted first.
It would be very inequitable if NSW made 300 & WA made 310. Then WA could then play for a draw despite finishing second on the ladder.
I can think of 2 possible alternatives.
The match is still played at the home ground of the hosting side, but a sporting pitch is prepared by a neutral curator. The home side must still be beaten outright, but a pitch that is prepared with good life in it will make it much more difficult for a side to simply draw the game.
or
A timeless match must be played until an result is achieved. A sporting pitch will still be prepared by a neutral curator to prevent a ridiculously long game being played.
I also think a reserve day should be allowed for in the case where substantial time is lost due to rain.
Shield games should remain at 4 days to maintain the integrity of the format. 3 day games make no sense in grooming players for test cricket.
To be honest WA had every opportunity to bowl NSW out in this game for under 300 on the first day, after having them at 6/189. If they were good enough they would have polished off the innings regardless of NSW intentions towards winning or drawing the game.
NSW didn't really have a home final as the match was played at Manuka in Canberra & they had a shed load of players missing from their strongest side.
It has been a very good season by WA & hopefully they can go the extra step next year.
