Canberra Raiders prop Shannon Boyd isn't holding his breath for a phone call about a New South Wales State of Origin call-up but believes his front-row partner should be.
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Boyd is in danger of being snubbed for the Blues just weeks after he was named to play for the Australian Kangaroos just as Junior Paulo surges into contention.
Paulo enjoyed a near-perfect Origin audition in Canberra's win over Parramatta, churning out 209 metres in 61 minutes on the paddock.
While Boyd has no doubt he could handle the cauldron of the Origin arena, he admits he wishes he was playing better football at club level to warrant an Origin debut.
The Raiders duo are locked in a battle with the likes of Andrew Fifita, Aaron Woods, David Klemmer, and Paul Vaughan for spots in Laurie Daley's Blues side.
But Boyd has endorsed Paulo with a quick check of the numbers quashing the myth that says the Samoan international might not be able to handle big minutes.
Paulo averages over 58 minutes per game at NRL level this season - an impressive feat for the 123-kilogram giant.
"Junior is one of those players that can play really big minutes for a big bloke," Boyd said.
"His impact, you can notice the game turn whenever he's on the field as well. He's a very skilful front-rower and he's good in defence and he works hard.
"I can't really fault Junes so really happy with how he's going too."
Daley is spoilt for choice up front and his selection could go a long way towards halting Queensland's dominance as the Maroons look to cover for the loss of injured incumbents Matt Scott and Nate Myles.
Boyd says all of the Blues contenders "are playing good footy" with a few spots up for grabs.
"I'd wish to be playing better footy at the moment but I'll try and find some form coming up and hopefully get a bit of a look in," Boyd said.
"I'll just see how I go but there's a few boys looking at the spot and hopefully with a little bit of luck I'll get in. But if not, I'm sure other blokes will do a good job.
"If I can get a call-up I'll put my hand up straight away and jump in and try and do a good job for them.
"If that happens, it happens, but if not I'm just going to keep trying to play good footy for Canberra. If I can play good footy enough then hopefully I'll get a start."
While the Raiders props are jostling for blue jerseys, their teammate in the back-row is edging closer to his seventh Maroons cap.
Josh Papalii lost his Kangaroos jersey following a drink-driving conviction and seemed determined to avoid a similar fate at state level.
The Raiders back-rower enjoyed a triumphant return for the Green Machine following a club-imposed one-game ban with a huge 80-minute effort against the Eels.
Papalii was a key in for a forward pack that had seemingly lost its way the week before despite the best efforts of Paulo and Sia Soliola.
"He's a leader, he's one of our best week to week. Having Papa back gives everyone confidence," Boyd said.
"He's physical, he's aggressive, and he has a really good carry. To have that back you could really notice the difference.
"Papa's one of those footballers, he's a leader and he steps up every week. He's one of those players that everyone wants to play with. That's why he's always picked for Australia and Queensland."
