St George Illawarra Dragons prop Jack Stockwell is eager to challenge himself against the South Sydney Rabbitohs at the SCG on Saturday.
The NSW Blues U20 representative is particularly keen to test himself against the opposition’s forward pack which boasts several international talents.
Stockwell, 22, returned to the field for the first time against the Brisbane Broncos last round after overcoming a hamstring injury and despite the loss admits it was good to be back on the paddock.
“It was awesome to be back out on the field again, especially against a top quality side like the Broncos,” said Stockwell.
“It’s unfortunate that we didn’t come away with a win but hopefully we can bring it this week against the Rabbitohs.
“I’ve been out with a hamstring injury so it was a bit tough coming back into first-grade but I was just happy to get a run.
“It’s been unreal playing with all the new boys like Dylan Farrell, Mike Cooper and Gareth Widdop.
“It has been good to form some new combinations and seeing their progression over the few weeks we’ve been back.
“I was quite surprised to be selected to be put straight back into the starting side, but Pricey has shown a bit of faith in me to do that and I just need to keep improving each week.
“All I have to do at training each week is do the hard work and put in all the effort I can; that’s when I’ll see results.
“It’s going to be awesome to play at the Sydney Cricket Ground, I always love playing there; there’s a great atmosphere and a great pitch, I’m really looking forward to it.
“It will be good to test ourselves against the big forward pack that South Sydney have.
“They’ve been struggling a bit these last couple of weeks so they will come out firing this week.
“I’m looking for a good challenge if I get out on the field and I’m looking to rough it up with some of the big boys.”
