Parramatta forward J’maine Hopgood has put himself in Origin contention after another strong performance for the Eels in their shock win over Souths.
The 24-year-old has developed into one of the best lock forwards in the opening three months of the season after joining the Eels from Penrith.
Hopgood was everywhere for the Eels on Friday night, recording 108 metres, four offloads and 38 tackles in his first 80-minute game since Round 1.
With Josh Papalii’s sudden retirement, Queensland will need some fresh blood and Hopgood’s name has been mentioned as a possible bolter.
“I haven’t spoken to Billy, and it’s not something I try to think too much about,” Hopgood said after the win.
“The only way I think about it is how much it would mean to me if I was able to do that.
“Twelve weeks ago, if you’d have said that to me then I would have laughed at you. To be able to just say that people are saying it is an achievement in itself.
“I just want to go out and play every week for Parra and do this jersey proud first. If I ever got the chance to wear that (Queensland) jersey then that would be something different and something very special for me.
“Even just to be mentioned is a good enough thing.”
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