 Neil and Merv retained their positions for Victoria ’ s first two matches of the 1947 – 48 season, against India and South Australia respectively. Again, Merv was out before Neil came in, so they did not bat together. The brotherly selection pairing was broken up for Victoria ’ s next match, as Neil was rewarded with selection for an Australian XI for a Test trial match against the Indians, while Merv continued to represent the state. Neil returned to the Victorian team for the match against New South Wales at the SCG the following week, and Ray was selected to make his first-class debut, so three Harveys were in the state team for the first time. Merv opened, while Neil and Ray batted at Nos. 4 and 7 respectively. Victoria batted first and the brothers again did not form any partnerships. Merv opened and made 45 before being dismissed at 2 / 99, prompting Neil's entrance to replace him at the crease. Neil then top-scored with 61 before falling at 4 / 200, and Ray then came in at 5 / 208 to make 43. Victoria ended with 331 and the Harvey brothers had scored almost half the runs. New South Wales were forced to follow on, and Victoria were set 51 for victory. After the fall of Fred Freer at 1 / 24, captain Lindsay Hassett elevated Ray to No. 3, allowing two Harveys to bat together for the first time at first-class level. Ray and Merv put on an unbeaten partnership of 27 to take Victoria to a nine-wicket win. Merv and Ray ended unbeaten on 12 and 22 respectively.
