If circumstances were a little different rookie Melbourne halfback Jahrome Hughes would be on the phone this week to ex-Storm No.7 Cooper Cronk.
But since Hughes will be plotting to end Sydney Roosters’ season and Cronk’s career in their NRL preliminary final on Saturday night, he won’t be making that call.
Playing just his 10th NRL game at halfback, Hughes will have his hands full against the retiring maestro, who has 370 NRL games under his belt.
Hughes watched from the stands as Cronk orchestrated the Storm’s downfall in last year’s grand final.
“It’s going to be good, it’s going to be a challenge as he’s one of the best halfbacks that’s ever played the game,” the 24-year-old said.
“It will be tough but I’m happy to take the challenge on.”
The pair crossed paths over the 2017 season in Melbourne, which was Hughes’ first and Cronk’s last.
Hughes said Cronk was always willing to help the newcomers at the club.
“He was always helping out the younger guys and if I ever needed any help with anything he was always there to lend a hand.”
But given their opposing roles he wouldn’t be reaching out this week.
“I haven’t spoken to him this year – I didn’t think I’d be playing in the halves,” Hughes said.
“If I did in the pre-season I would have given him a text but I won’t be this week – I don’t think he will give me much.”
Hughes admits he’s still finding his feet in the halves, having shifted from fullback for the past four games.
His performance in Saturday’s emphatic win over the Eels was his best to date, reinforcing coach Craig Bellamy’s decision to opt for him over Brodie Croft.
“Craig said to ‘Be confident’ as he had confidence in me so I needed to back myself and that’s the best thing a coach could have said to me.
“I feel like as a spine we’ve gelled pretty well.”