Jack de Belin has opened up to media for the first time since returning to the NRL, admitting that he hasn't given up hope of getting back into the State of Origin arena.
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The Dragons forward played his first game in 992 days in his side's 52-24 win over the Broncos at Kogarah on June 3, after the NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions opted against a third sexual assault trial and formally withdrew charges.
The 30-year-old has since played another two NRL games and de Belin, who played three Origin games for NSW in 2018, on Saturday said he was feeling more comfortable at this level again.
"It's great to be back playing football, I'm grateful for every game that I get to play. The game's different now and it's taken me a little while to get there, but I feel like I'm finally finding my legs," he said.
"It means so much [to return]. Football is such a big part of my life and to not be able to play it for close to three years was obviously challenging at times. But I love being back out there and I love being around the boys and all of the coaching staff.
"I'd love to be playing Origin but that's a little wishful thinking, so we'll put that over to next year. For the Dragons, my goal is for us to definitely be back in finals and have a deep run, if not try win the whole thing."
There's been plenty of recent media speculation about the NRL's game speed in 2021. De Belin - who has averaged nearly 100 running metres per game since returning - admitted it took him time to adjust to the competition.
"The first week threw me out a little bit but I feel like every week, I'm getting better," he said.
"To be honest, I'm kind of happy because it suits my game and I'm really excited to see where it takes me."
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