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 Eels player who is most likely to shine at the tournament? Have your say below.
Jarryd Hayne - Based on his World Cup form, there's no arguably better player in the world right now. A brilliant ball-runner in open play.
Will Hopoate - Pre-season runs are fun, but it's time to really see how much life Hoppa Jnr needs in those lanky legs.
Corey Norman - A genuine five-eighth can slice through threadbare defences like a hot knife through butter. But is Corey Norman really a six?
Joseph Paulo - Captain America was a real hero at the World Cup. But was he a figment of our imagination, or does Parramatta have a genuine x-factor?
Nathan Peats - Like Norman, time is nigh to find out whether Peats is a true dummy-half, or just a pretty good back up.
Fuifui Moimoi - The oldest player in the NRL might soon have trouble lasting five minutes, let alone 18. But at the very least it'd be a damn good five minutes.
Willie Tonga - The former Queensland ace is desperate for game time, and this would be the perfect place to stretch those veteran legs.
