Canterbury coach Des Hasler says the fact Ben Barba is even being considered as a replacement for injured Queensland fullback Billy Slater in the State of Origin decider is a reward for his strong NRL performances this season.
Barba has been in top form for the second-placed Bulldogs under the guidance of Hasler, particularly in his defensive game.
The 21-year-old will get the opportunity to show his credentials against ladder leaders Melbourne in Mackay on Sunday, and a strong performance could potentially elevate him into Mal Meninga’s side for the July 4 showdown in Brisbane.
Hasler refused to be drawn on whether he thinks Barba should be selected, but heaped praised on the diminutive custodian, who was 19th man for the Maroons in game two.
“Benny’s been playing really good, consistent footy this year – he’s worked really hard on his game,” Hasler said on Wednesday.
“It was great to see him involved in the Origin experience at game two.
“It’s great for him to see his name being put alongside the likes of (Greg) Inglis and Darius Boyd, players that Benny obviously looks up to.
“It’s a good reward for Benny, to think that he’s being considered in that mix.”
The former Manly coach stopped short of saying whether he thought Barba could handle such an intense Origin match but suggested he was up to it.
“I think to play fullback in the NRL, there’s a certain temperament that you’ve got to have,” he said.
Barba said it would be a dream to be called up, and revealed the Bulldogs’ New Zealand-born prop Sam Kasiano does want to play for Queensland.
“If I ever get the chance to wear that Maroons jumper, I’ll take it head on,” Barba said.
“It’s definitely a dream of mine to do that.”
Kasiano signed a letter committing himself to the Kiwis earlier this year, but has publicly remained tight-lipped on whether he would declare for Australia so he can represent Queensland.
Barba said the giant front-rower is ready for Origin and hopes he gets to play alongside side him on July 4.
“I had a chat with him and he wants to play for us (Queensland). I’m hoping he does,” he said.
Sunday’s game, which will be played at Mackay’s Virgin Australia Stadium, is the first time the North Queensland town has held an NRL fixture.
The last of the 12,000 tickets available sold out on Wednesday.