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.
8. Ethan Sanders (New South Wales)
Club: Parramatta Eels
Position: Halfback
A goal-kicking halfback, Sanders led the Parramatta Eels beautifully throughout the 2023 SG Ball Cup season to win the premiership with a thrilling 28-22 victory over the Newcastle Knights in the decider.
His precision and vision, as well as coolness under pressure during that game, was obvious to see en route to being named player of the game.
Sanders scored the opening try and kicked four from five to cap off a wonderful season in the under-19 competition. He had already made an impression in Jersey Flegg during the back half of last season, and his talent isn't going unnoticed, with rival clubs reportedly looking to snare him from Parramatta.
Sanders will be the gel for the spine in this game, which also features the talented Raiders' youngster Chevy Stewart at the back and Billy Scott at hooker.
