NSW have set Queensland a competitive target of 318 to win the one-day cup final at North Sydney Oval.
After being sent into bat, the Blues spurned an opportunity for an even bigger tally with three batsman reaching 50 only to get out when seemingly set for a big score.
Peter Nevill (70), Steve Smith (61) and Nic Maddinson (76) all impressed with the bat, but Ben Rohrer stole the show late on with an unbeaten 48 off just 27 balls as the Blues collected some crucial late runs.
In-form opener David Warner – who had scored three centuries in his previous four innings – was dismissed for 14 after being caught off the bowling of Test teammate Ryan Harris, although television replays indicated the Queensland quick had bowled a no-ball that had gone undetected.
Harris bowled with good pace and collected figures of 2-40 off eight overs, while skipper James Hopes took 3-62.
Queensland are aiming to retain the title they won last year, while NSW are seeking to end an eight-year drought in the competition.