Gallant captain Daniel Marsh led a blistering offensive to guide Tasmania within one run of an extraordinary Pura Cup victory over Western Australia at the WACA Ground.

Tailender Andrew Downton needed two runs off the last ball but managed just a single as the visitors fell agonisingly short of their victory target of 387.

Marsh had guided them towards an unlikely win with an unbeaten 111 off 95 balls but his efforts counted for nought with WA claiming first-innings points.

The match was declared a draw for the purpose of points with the scores tied: WA 437 and 5(dec)-329, Tasmania 380 and 7-386.

Marsh's efforts were snuffed by an extraordinary debut performance by Ben Edmondson.

The big Queenslander (3-47) landed in WA only five days ago and was handed the responsibility of bowling the last over of the day with Tasmania requiring seven runs to win.

He was a shock selection, brought on to replace Brad Williams who left midway through the day for national team duties.

Bowling to the red-hot Marsh, he managed a dot ball before a short ball which Marsh top-edged into his face.

Edmondson kept his cool and Marsh had another swing and miss before bottom-edging a four just wide of his leg stump.

Just when things looked bleak for the home Marsh nudged a single to short man to put Downton on strike.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP