Tasmanian fast bowler Ben Hilfenhaus sent selectors a timely pre-Ashes reminder by knocking Australian captain Michael Clarke's off-stump out of the ground on day three of the Bupa Sheffield Shield clash at Blacktown.
NSW in control against Tasmania
Scorecard
Some might say claiming the skipper's wicket isn't the smartest career move, but for right-arm quick Hilfenhaus the prized scalp of Clarke for just 7 can only boost his hopes of a Test recall.
Hilfenhaus finished with figures of 2-42 off 14 overs, with his delivery to dismiss Clarke a beauty, nipping back nicely to take off.
QUICK SINGLE: Clarke reprimanded for code breach
The 31-year-old had a brilliant run two summers ago against India under mentor Craig McDermott, but struggled a little last year and hasn't played a Test since December.
However, given the injury problems plaguing Australia's quicks, Hilfenhaus will be in contention to face England throughout the summer if he performs well.
With McDermott, now returned to his post as Test bowling coach, watching from the stands, Hilfenhaus got his season off to a handy start.
"If the opportunity pops up I'm more than happy to take it. I'm just concentrating on playing well for Tassie at the moment and finding some rhythm and hopefully take a few wickets along the way," said Hilfenhaus, who said he's gradually bowling up his loads to be able to reach the 150km speeds he achieved two summers ago.
McDermott said Hilfenhaus was certainly in the running for the Ashes.
"He's quite capable, he's not too old. He's strong, he's fit and a couple of little tinkers here and there and hopefully he can come back," he said.
Tasmania were set a challenging target of 295 to win, and their task got even tougher when another Test hopeful Josh Hazlewood claimed the key wicket of Ed Cowan, the type of batsman capable of sticking around in tough conditions.
Ben Dunk (12 not out) and Alex Doolan (0no) face a big task on Saturday.
NSW were bowled out for 245 from 72 overs in their second innings, with Australian middle-order batsman Steve Smith starring with 63 and Scott Henry chipping in with 65.
"I think we're in a good position. It was nice to get Eddie out ... it's going to be tough work for them if we bowl well tomorrow," Smith said.