BREAKING NEWS:Duke baseball hopes to end 64-year World Series drought. Up first: Murray State at… details more.

After more than six decades of waiting, Duke University baseball is on the cusp of rewriting history. The Blue Devils are eyeing a return to the College World Series for the first time since 1961, and their journey begins with a crucial matchup against Murray State in the NCAA Super Regionals.

Duke, riding a wave of momentum after a strong showing in the regional round, will host the Racers at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in a best-of-three series starting Friday. The Blue Devils (41–18) are coming off a thrilling comeback win over LSU, while Murray State (39–20) pulled off an upset of their own, eliminating No. 10 seed East Carolina.

“We’ve been building for this moment,” said Duke head coach Chris Pollard. “This group believes, and they’re hungry to bring this program back to Omaha.”

The last time Duke reached the College World Series, John F. Kennedy was president. The team has made Super Regional appearances in recent years, but has yet to break through. Now, with a blend of veteran leadership and breakout underclassmen, hopes are higher than ever.

Murray State, appearing in its first-ever Super Regional, poses a legitimate challenge. Led by ace right-hander Cole Whitmore and slugger Darius Miles, the Racers have embraced the underdog role throughout the postseason.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. ET Friday night. Game 2 follows Saturday, with a possible Game 3 set for Sunday if needed. The winner punches their ticket to Omaha.