TRENT Copeland already ranks as one of the most successful Sheffield Shield bowlers in the history of New South Wales cricket, but now he is on the cusp of another Blues milestone.
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The Bathurst seamer is currently just six victims away from becoming the fourth NSW bowler to claim 300 shield wickets.
He gets the chance to reach that mark before the week is over as the Blues take on Victoria at the MCG in the latest round of the shield from Friday.
Across his six matches at the MCG, Copeland has claimed 23 wickets at average of 26.83, while in his last two clashes against Victoria, he has struck 11 times.
While joining Geoff Lawson (367), Greg Matthews (363) and Stuart MacGill (328) in the 300 club would be a special moment, Copeland's 75th shield match will be about more than personal milestones.
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With Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood on international duties, Copeland will shoulder more responsibility with the ball as the Blues look to make it five consecutive wins.
The match will be the first time this season the undefeated Blues will be without all of their internationals - Steve Smith and Nathan Lyon absent as well.
Victoria, the defending champions, are yet to win a match and will be keen to impress on their home wicket.
NSW has managed two wins and a draw in their last five appearances at the MCG.
