Less than a year after he returned to rugby league, Bulldogs star Bronson Xerri has stated that he wants to play for the State of Origin.
The 24-year-old had a great return season with Canterbury this year after receiving a four-year ban for doping while playing for Cronulla.
As the team pushed their way into the finals for the first time in over five years, Xerri solidified his place in the starting lineup and was a true X-factor.
In an attempt to reward Phil Gould and Cameron Ciraldo for their faith in him, the strike centre recently signed a new two-year contract with the Dogs.
On Thursday night, Xerri told 9News Sydney, “I have a lot of respect for the club because they took a chance on me.”
“I want to play for Gus and Ciro because they are like my saviours.” I will return the favour to a club that has shown me loyalty.
“Ciro told me repeatedly that he was startled, but I wouldn’t say I surprised myself. I have a lot of faith in myself, and I trained really hard for that.”
Xerri, who made his NRL debut at the age of 18, was always hailed as a future representative player after progressing through the Sharks’ lower categories as a teenager.
Even though there are now too many centres fighting for a spot in the NSW Blues squad, Xerri is sure he can push his way into the lineup in the upcoming years.
“Definitely – my eyes are set on making my Origin debut,” he stated.
“But the first step is Bulldogs.”
