Victorian top-order batsman Rob Quiney feels he’s let the Bushrangers down this season and owes them runs in the closing stages of the state one-day competition.
Victoria play their final round-robin match against Queensland at the MCG on Saturday.
They’ve already qualified for the final and will almost certainly host it, while the Bulls must win to have a chance of playing in the decider.
Quiney had a career highlight earlier this season when handed a Test debut for Australia against South Africa but, after managing just nine runs in three innings against the Proteas, his lean form carried into domestic cricket.
The 30-year-old regained some touch with 122 and 76 in two recent one-dayers against the touring England Lions development side but said he needed to perform against another state.
“My focus is purely on making runs for Victoria because I owe them a few runs this year, so that’s all I’m worried about,” Quiney said.
“It’s one of those things, that you’re presented with opportunities and to bat in the top order, especially in one-day games, is usually the best place to bat.
“So I just feel like I’ve let a few people down thus far and I want to repay them.”
Injury-prone Bulls quick Ryan Harris will play his first domestic match of the season, after a frustrating run of shoulder and hip injuries.
Quiney predicted the 33-year-old would be charging in.
“He hasn’t played cricket for that long, I imagine he’ll be pretty excited about it too,” the Victorian said.
“It’s going to be a massive challenge.
“I’m definitely looking forward to it because he’s world class.
“It will be a great challenge for me personally and also our top order.”
While there is little riding on the clash for the Bushrangers, Quiney said it was important to carry winning form into the final.
Victoria: Cameron White (capt), Fawad Ahmed, Scott Boland, Peter Handscomb, Michael Hill, David Hussey, Alex Keath, Darren Pattinson, Rob Quiney, Chris Rogers, Clive Rose, Will Sheridan.
Queensland: James Hopes (capt), Luke Pomersbach, Peter Forrest, Greg Moller, Nathan Reardon, Dominic Michael, Chris Hartley, Nathan Hauritz, Cameron Gannon, Matthew Gale, Ryan Harris, Ronan McDonald.
(12th men to be named).
