The inaugural Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines will see the 16 NRL clubs competing for $2.6 million in prize money in a two-day blockbuster over February 15 and 16. While the individual 15-man squads are unknown at this stage, each club is committed to fielding 12 players from their top 25 squad, including at least one of their five highest-paid players.
So who is the one Knights player most likely to shine at the tournament? Have your say below.
Jarrod Mullen - Mullen possesses arguably the most dangerous long kicking game in rugby league, and the extra space in Nines will make him an even greater threat.
Akuila Uate - The hard running winger should come into his own with even more chances to run the footy.
Darius Boyd - A topline finisher and support runner, should get plenty of chances in Auckland.
Kurt Gidley - Arguably the most versatile player in league with the whole gamut of skills – with fewer players on the field those skills will make him invaluable.
Willie Mason - You'll still need some big men on the field and if Willie can attract a bunch of defenders with every run it will open space for his outside men.
Dane Gagai - Half of one of 2013's most dangerous centre pairings, Gagai's attacking instincts will be well suited to Nines.
Joey Leilua - Leilua bounced out of tackles at will in 2013. If he can reproduce those hard-hitting runs in Auckland the Knights will get on a huge roll.
Beau Scott - Someone still has to make the tackles and Scott is one of the game's premier defenders – a key asset with fewer men to make the tackles.
