If you thought Dylan Lucas earned his starting spot in the NSW Origin team after scoring six tries in his last five games for the Newcastle Knights, you’d need to think again.
The catalyst for Lucas’ rise through the rugby league ranks to the Blues came back in 2019, when the then 18-year-old South Coast teenager left home with nothing but a bag of clothes and his football boots.
He had finished high school and thought he had a future with the Illawarra Steelers. But they didn’t want him.
“I played Steelers growing up and to be honest they weren’t that keen … there was an opportunity to go up to Newcastle and play under 20s and see what happens,” Lucas said.
“I just thought I’d take a risk, head up there, leave everyone, and get out of my comfort zone.
“I’m that glad I did it now as it’s definitely paid me back.
Dylan Lucas Try
“It was a crazy journey but one that I wouldn’t change for the world because it landed me up there in Newy.”
Lucas was recruited by former Knights halfback Scott Dureau and played five-eighth when he was in the Knights Jersey Flegg Cup (Under 21s) team.
He then moved to the centres in NSW Cup and after making his NRL debut in 2023 he was in the second row.
The 25-year-old recently re-signed for a further three seasons with the Knights and played his 50th NRL game a fortnight ago.
After being on the extended bench for Game One, Lucas will play Game Two in the No.12 jersey for NSW on the right edge as Hudson Young will keep his No.11 spot on the left.
“I’m comfortable with doing that. Obviously when you first come into grade you’ve got to be able to play everywhere," he said.
“Growing up that was something I did, playing both sides of the field. But I’ll get plenty of reps on the right this week and I’ll be good to go.”
Lucas follows long line of distinguished Knights forwards that have forced their way into the NSW pack, with Steve Simpson, Paul Harragon, Ben Kennedy, Beau Scott, Tariq Sims to name a few.
With no Jacob Saifiti in the NSW squad, Lucas is the sole Knights representative.
However, he has forged “a bromance” with Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs.
Kennedy scores off a Johns run
“My brother lives in Newcastle and Dyl is good mates with him,” Staggs explains.
“I met him about two years ago and I see him often as I always go to Newcastle in the off-season to see my family.
“We just built a connection from there and we played together in the Koori Knock-out (NCC team).
“I’m stoked for him; very proud of him and his family. He deserves it because his footy has been talking loudly this year at the Knights.”
Match: Blues v Maroons
Game 2 -
home Team
Blues
away Team
Maroons
Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
Lucas couldn’t wipe the smile off his face as he did the rounds of media interviews at the Blues first day in camp.
“It’s a real honour and I’m very grateful that Loz has put his trust in me. I’m that excited to get out there next Wednesday night.”
- Be part of history at the MCG on June 17. Get your tickets HERE
