Despite being the first NSW halfback since Andrew Johns to taste State of Origin success, Trent Hodkinson believes he’s a long way from cementing his spot as the Blues’ starting No.7.
The Canterbury playmaker was long odds to play Origin at the start of the year and admits he feels far from un-droppable.
“There’s a long time between Origins and a lot can happen between now and game one next year,” Hodkinson said.
“It’s up to me to go back to club footy and continue to play well because if I don’t do that then I won’t get picked.
“I’m by no means guaranteed to keep my spot.”
The Blues were comfortably beaten 32-8 by Queensland in game three in Brisbane and Hodkinson got little chance to show any real attacking verve, although he did set up the Blues’ only try scored by Josh Dugan.
However, he claims he has grown as a player with each game of the series.
“It’s been a great experience as mates to hold that shield but it still hasn’t sunk in yet,” he said.
“It’s my first series and it’s great honour we’ve waited a long time for this.
“I found the first game really but second and third games it was a lot easier as I felt more comfortable and knew what to expect.”
Hodkinson won’t be lining up alongside Blues halves partner Josh Reynolds for the next three games after he accepted a three-game suspension for a shoulder charge on Queensland winger Will Chambers.
That decision could see Tony Williams remain in the halves for the Bulldogs following his impressive performance as a makeshift No.6 against Manly last Friday.
“I am sure Des (Hasler) will come up with something,” Hodkinson said.
“But if he does play there I can expect a lot of traffic coming at me because there aren’t going to be too many players running at him.”