SYDNEY, Oct 13 AAP - Michael Bevan has ensured New South Wales recovered from the worst possible start to post a competitive target in its season opening ING Cup cricket match against Queensland at North Sydney Oval today.

The Blues lost opener Brad Haddin to a run out off the opening ball, but Bevan's 87 helped the home team reach 8-240 after winning the toss.

Bevan struck nine fours in his 138 ball innings which featured plenty of stylish cuts and drives.

He figured in stands of 90 for the second wicket with Corey Richards (36) and 85 for the third with Michael Clarke (39).

New NSW skipper, Simon Katich, supplied some late innings momentum with 32 off 25 balls from the number six position.

Experienced paceman Michael Kasprowicz was the pick of the Bulls bowlers, conceding just 12 runs in his opening seven over spell and finishing with 2-30 off his full allocation.

The only other multiple wicket taker was young paceman Damien MacKenzie, who finished with 2-37 off seven overs, despite not being introduced to the attack until the 37th over.

© 2002 AAP

This report does not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Cricket Board.