Jeffrey was a standout for his side on Saturday, top-scoring with 73 as Colts posted 249 against Macquarie at No. 3 Oval.

The leg-spinning all-rounder had made a host of representative sides in his junior career and is set to depart Dubbo for a higher level next month following his HSC exams.

“He got an early chance but then he went on with it and hopefully it can build some confidence for him because I think his confidence has been a bit low,” Giddings said.

“Hopefully he can keep on scoring a few and take that with him when he goes to Sydney.”

Jeffrey was well-supported by Brad Cox (54) in a 77-run second wicket stand after Angus Cusack (2-44) removed Giddings (5) early.

Darrel Williams (32) and Chris Morton (34) also chipped in but Giddings said his side probably fell “20 to 30, maybe 50” runs short of what they could have after a positive start.

The final wicket fell in the last over of the day, meaning the Blues start their innings on day two.

“If bowl well and take our chances we should be in a position to win the game and if you get offered 250 at the start of the day more often than not you’ll take it,” Giddings added.

Cusack was a workhorse for Macquarie and got through 19 overs while Ricky Medway (3/29) did a good job late in the day.

Benny Semmler and Tom Atlee are expected to take the new ball on day two while Colts, who lost to Souths in the opening round, will also welcome back RSL-Whitney Cup winning captain Greg Buckley as he returns from England this week.

Macquarie get round one centurion Dan Medway back for day two and he Jason Green and Angus Cusack will be key in the chase.

“If Benny and Tommy can bowl well early then we’ve got Greg, Darrell and Mitch (Ashford) to bowl,” Giddings, who will also get through some overs, said.

“They’ve got a good lineup so we’ve got to put pressure on them.”