Record-breaking Queensland skipper Jimmy Maher has proved his 2007 World Cup dream was no fantasy, leading the Bulls to a nail-biting ING Cup victory.

Maher did just about everything but score a much-deserved century while his teammates crumbled against Tasmania at the Gabba.

The left-hander was cruelly run out for 99 (121 balls) following a mid-pitch mix-up with Clinton Perren as the Bulls frantically chased a bonus-point victory.

With chief selector Trevor Hohns in the stands and Australian captain Ricky Ponting in the field leading the Tigers, Maher reminded them of his one-day worth after playing the last of his 26 internationals in 2003.

"I certainly haven't given up hope of playing for Australia," said the 31-year-old, who also started the domestic four-day season brilliantly with 153 against the Tigers this week.

"I make no secret of the fact the 2007 World Cup is still a huge goal of mine.

"If I keep batting how I'm batting and keep scoring runs, who knows. That's all I can do. I know I'm good enough to get there."

The opener's sickening dismissal sent Queensland (8-213) into a white-knuckled tailspin, losing 3-16 in fading light, before Nathan Hauritz hit the winning runs in the 43rd over.

The bonus point looked a sure thing with Maher at the crease in his 86th one-day match for his state, which eclipsed predecessor Stuart Law's mark.

Maher's only "blemish" was a well-timed straight-drive that took a deflection off bowler Ben Hilfenhaus to run out a terribly unlucky Matthew Hayden.

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