Quins have been the standout team in the early part of the season with three West Asia Premiership wins from three.

They maintained a three point lead at the top of the table without even lifting a finger a wekk ago. Maiden wins for Dubai Hurricanes against Dubai Exiles and city rivals Saracens against Bahrain, as well as a Doha victory against Jebel Ali Dragons, means Quins lead the way on 13 points.

Bahrain, Dragons and Exiles are all on 10, with all seven sides now just separated by just eight points following last week’s results.

McFarlane believes they are indicative of the fierce competition which exists in the league this season.

“I was surprised by some results but in this league you can’t just rock up and expect to win,” said McFarlane. “You have to have the inner grit to fight for 80 minutes.”

After two weeks without a game, Quins are raring to go Friday against Doha at Zayed Sports City.

“The boys have been training very hard and the commitment has been outstanding. They are tearing into each other for spots then heading out on socials together, a true representation of the culture at the club. We can’t wait to get back on the pitch and put everything we’ve been working on into action,” added McFarlane.

“We have three teams in action this week and selection has been the most difficult yet, which is a great sign of depth in quality.”

A few things have changed for the visitors, with Alex Natera stepping up from his previous role as assistant coach to replace the outgoing Aaron Palmer.

“We feel like we’ve finally been able to build some momentum and because of this the squad is pretty buoyant,” said Natara, whose side are a point behind the chasing three teams of Bahrain, Exiles and Dragons in joint second.

“However, we are under no illusions that this weekend’s match will be our toughest to date. We will have to be at our very best to come away with points from Quins and that is certainly our aim.”