Tremain, White put Vics on top in Shield

Tremain (5-13) tore through Tasmania's top order on Saturday's opening day, as the hosts were routed for just 81 after being sent in on a green-tinged Bellerive Oval pitch.

Victoria finished at 5-148, a lead of 67 runs, thanks largely to Cameron White's composed 63.

But the damage was done early by Victoria's pace battery.

Tremain was supported by former Test quick James Pattinson (3-13) and leading Shield wicket-taker Scott Boland (2-22).

The Tigers were reeling at 8-78 at lunch and were all out shortly afterwards.

Pattinson, whose last Test was in 2016, clean bowled veteran George Bailey (15) in a hot five-over first-session spell.

"We always speak about it being a collective effort," Tremain said.

"We got labelled bullies a few years ago and we really liked it.

"When we're on top, we really try and stay on top - foot on the throat kind of thing."

Only four Tasmanians reached double figures, while Test skipper Tim Paine (three) fell slashing a Tremain delivery to White early in the second session.

Tremain, who has 22 Shield wickets from three matches and an innings, has been touted as a bolter for the Australian Test squad behind frontline quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

However the 27-year-old is remaining circumspect.

"You've just got to be ready at the right time - if one of them isn't up for a game or is injured," Tremain said.

"At the moment, I'm focused heavily on the Victorian schedule."

Peter Handscomb (four) was caught behind off Gurinder Sandhu, missing his opportunity to push for a Test recall for the series against India.

Victoria looked shaky at 2-21, but White steadied the ship before pushing on to his 54th first-class half-century.

The Tigers' Riley Meredith was the pick of their quicks with 2-25.

Seb Gotch (23) will resume on day two alongside Pattinson, who has made nine.

Australian Associated Press