Michael Jennings Faces Challenge to Keep the NSW Origin Spot
Sydney Roosters centre Michael Jennings had to face a tough time to maintain his spot with NSW State of Origin after the challenge made by Parramatta Eeels fullback, Jarryd Hyne.
Jennings was looking forward to reclaim his position in the centre spot for the State of Origin opening match on May 28.
Jennings was in good form in the opening eight rounds of the NRL. He played in the NRL premiership last season and scored uperb interstate tries in NSW Origin I in 2013.
Jarryd Hyne was equally in good form and made an impressive performance playing for Australia in the World Cup in 2013.
Jennings stated he needs to play at least two more big NRL games to retain his position. Coach Laurie Daley will announce the squad on May 20.
"There's Josh Morris and Haynesy's in the mix there ... But I've played there before and, if I play these next two games and play well, I'd like to see myself in that position ... But who knows?... Hayne played centre in the Oz team last year and he's a quality player so, if he gets picked there, he gets picked there ... I can't argue with that; whatever they go with is their decision ... These two games are important for myself pushing for that position ... You would want to pick on form and I want to be playing my best footy coming up to Origin ... I don't want to be picked on past performances - I want to be picked on my form," Jennings said on Tuesday.
Jennings earlier suffered an ankle injury that recurred in the match against St George Illawarra, but he confirmed he would be ready to play in the match with Wests Tigers at the Allianz Stadium on Friday.
"I did a full session yesterday, the ankle was fine and I should be right for Friday ... It didn't bother me once so I will be sweet ... I did it once in 2010 and it has been a problem since then ... When I did it, I was lucky I didn't injure it further," Jennings added.
Jennings also said he may have to undergo surgery after the end of the season