THERE’S been a mixed reaction to Dragons players openly pushing their case for Origin selection.
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Jack de Belin has led the charge, stating his belief that he’s “made for Origin,” while Tariq Sims has been equally vocal.
The likes of Cam McInnes, Paul Vaughan and Euan Aitken have been more measured, but just as firm in their desire to play in that arena.
Some call it cocky but, as someone who spends a fair chunk of his time wading through tired cliches, it’s nothing short of refreshing.
One thing’s certain, it’s music to the ears of NSW coach Brad Fittler. What’s also refreshing is Paul McGregor’s attitude to his players open pitch.
Plenty of coaches would seek the muzzle players on the topic, but he said on Thursday he feels no need to rein his charges in.
“All players, if they’re honest, will say they want to play Origin,” he said.
“Certainly, if a player comes out and puts that on the line it means he’s going to go out there and play, and do it on a weekly basis. It’s a player backing his belief in himself and I love that.
“There’s no doubt my players feel, if they continue their form, they want to be open to selection. There’s six weeks to go and they know that.
“They’re grounded, they know if their team’s going well they get personal satisfaction and [Origin] selection from that.”