The NRL's best showcase of junior talent is upon us, with the under-19s State of Origin to take place in Redcliffe on Thursday evening.
In a match that was played at Leichhardt last year, a number of players have gone on to make their NRL debuts in the following 12 months, including the likes of Paul Alamoti, Jack Bostock, Jonah Pezet, Justin Matamua, Trey Mooney, Jojo Fifita and Kulikefu Finefeuiaki. A number of others are likely close to debuting.
Now, the next crop of youngsters gets their chance to shine in front of the bright lights that come with any interstate battle.
Here are the players to watch, with all on this list a strong chance of debuting in the NRL over the next 12 months.
7. Mutua Brown (Queensland)
@kommunitytv MAGIC FROM MUTUA BROWN ๐โจ How about this step from the Cathedral College fullback as he scores for Queensland at the ASSRL Nationals. ๐บWatch the action live at link in bio. #assrl #assrlnationals #nrlschoolboys #nrl #rugbyleague #rugby #footy #league #schoolboyfooty #livestream #grassroots
Club: North Queensland Cowboys
Position: Fullback
Brown is still eligible for under 18s but will wear the number one jumper for the 19s on Thursday evening.
Noted for his lightning pace, Brown is rated as one of the best young fullbacks in the game and will look to put his name in lights on Thursday evening.
He has impressed all the way through the junior ranks, and brings plenty to any team he plays in. Watch in particular for the way he will run in support, making offloads from key forwards Ryan Jackson, Benjamin Te Kura and Angus Hinchey, all the more dangerous for the Blues' defensive outfit.
