Ferguson eyes Aussie rugby league jumper - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Ferguson eyes Aussie rugby league jumper

By Joe Barton 17/09/2010 12:17:01 PM Comments (0)

Impressive young centre Blake Ferguson is aiming to use his first representative game as a springboard to a Four Nations spot.

One of the brightest prospects in the game, Ferguson will pull on the green and gold for the first time this month when he lines up against the Kumuls for the Prime Minister's XII in Port Moresby.

It's a dream come true for the 20-year-old star, and with the depth of Australia's outside backs being tested by injuries to several stars, Ferguson hopes an eye-catching performance in Papua New Guinea can translate into a Four Nations spot.

Australia will name a 24-man squad for the tournament, and history has shown selectors are not afraid to pick bolters.

National representatives Greg Inglis and Josh Morris have both opted for shoulder surgery instead of the end-of-season tournament, while Bronco Justin Hodges (Achilles) hasn't played all year and, with Israel Folau taking the AFL option, there is a spot open alongside Manly's Jamie Lyon.

"I know there are some injuries there, hopefully I could (use it to springboard into the Aussie squad)," Ferguson told AAP.

"I need to focus on playing for the PMs 13 and see what happens with that.

"It's a big goal for me to play in the green and gold.

"I've never actually played in the green and gold, I was never picked in the 18s teams or anything like that.

"I was unfortunate not to get picked in any of those teams so it is good that I've been picked for the PM's game and I'd be even happier if I started the game.

"If I can play well and get picked in the (Aussie squad) that would be great.

"Just to be a part of it would be good."

Ferguson experienced first hand this week exactly what is required to represent your country when he did a fitness session with the PM's XIII and Four Nations train-on squads at Redfern Oval, including Test stars Darren Lockyer, Cam Smith and Sam Thaiday.

"I've learned heaps, even in just one session," Ferguson said.

"I've learnt that Darren Lockyer is the fittest bloke I've ever met in my life.

"I don't know how he does it. He's old, and I'm young, and I can't even keep up with him, what's going on there?

"But it's just really exciting.

"I didn't have the best of seasons, I know I could've played a bit better, but I'm really happy about making this team."

The talented youngster, who has signed with the Raiders for the 2011 NRL season, has kept an eye on the Green Machine's exceptional run at the back end of the year, and feels their burst of form justifies the tough decision to turn his back on the Sharks in search of success.

"It's exactly what I've been looking for," he said.

"No offence to the Sharks, they've helped me out all my career and they were the ones who gave me my first shot but unfortunately I have to move on.

"If we can keep all the players together it will be good next year. Next year will be another good year, they're having a good year this year."

The Prime Minister's XIII match will take place at Lloyd Robson Oval on September 25.

Brought to you by AAP AAP © 2024 AAP

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