Tasmania embarked on a go-slow on day one of the Sheffield Shield final against Queensland at Bellerive.

The Tigers took an excruciating 60 overs to reach 0-90 at tea at a snail’s pace of 1.5 runs per over after winning the toss and batting.

It took Mark Cosgrove 168 balls to reach his 45, with opening partner Jordan Silk 41 not out from a massive 195 deliveries.

Tasmania only need to draw the five-day game to win their third title and their approach on the driest-looking Bellerive pitch of the summer underlined the fact.

Just eight boundaries were hit in two sessions, while 26 maiden overs were bowled.

Silk, coming off a century against Victoria, was lucky to still be there after offering two chances.

The 20-year-old, in just his third match, was dropped by Ryan Harris at slip on four off the bowling of spinner Nathan Hauritz.

He then nearly ran himself out on 34 and was stranded mid-pitch as Cameron Gannon’s throw at the stumps from point just missed.

Silk also survived a nasty knock on the elbow from Harris (0-26) late in the morning session, receiving treatment but batting on.

There was little else to get excited about, unless you were a Queensland bowler looking to improve your economy rate.

Skipper James Hopes sent down 15 overs with just 18 runs conceded, while Hauritz’s 11 cost just nine.

Showers forecast for Hobart stayed away but more are predicted over the weekend.

Tasmania are aiming to win their third Shield title and first with former Australia captain Ricky Ponting.

The Bulls are fighting to defend their title and win the Shield for the eight time.