Resurgent Benji wants Kiwis jumper

[Super Freak]

Resurgent Bronco Benji Marshall wants New Zealand jumper back

Wed 13 September, 2017

RESURGENT Bronco Benji Marshall wants his New Zealand jumper back and has appealed for selectors to resurrect his Test career for the Kiwis’ upcoming World Cup campaign.

Marshall faces his biggest test of the season on Friday night with he and Kodi Nikorima to trade blows with Penrith sensation Nathan Cleary at halfback in the elimination final at Suncorp Stadium.

It has been five long years since Marshall last wore his beloved black-and-white jumper and his Kiwi career appeared to be over as he lost all confidence in his playmaking ability at the Dragons last season

But Marshall’s lifeline from Broncos coach Wayne Bennett this season has reignited his passion for the game, restoring the veteran’s faith that he can help spearhead a Kiwi World Cup boilover.

New Zealand’s leadership core has been decimated for the World Cup starting next month, with skipper Jesse Bromwich and back-rower Kevin Proctor black-listed after their off-field scandal following the Anzac Test in May.

Besieged Kiwi coach David Kidwell will need experience to topple Mal Meninga’s Kangaroos and Marshall fits the bill.

The 32-year-old has been largely successful at the Broncos this season and while he wasn’t at his optimum starting at halfback against the Roosters last Friday night, Marshall is adamant he can be an asset to the Kiwis.

“I’m available for the World Cup,” Marshall said.

“To be honest, I probably won’t get selected but I’m never going to rule myself out of contention because representing your country is the highest honour.

“I really enjoyed my time playing for the Kiwis and it’s something I would love to do again.

“Whether I get selected or not is not up to me but I’m not going to rule myself out.

“If they need me, I’m available. I know I can offer something.”

The Whakatane whiz is one of his country’s most accomplished servants.

Marshall captained the Kiwis during his 27-Test career, famously scoring the try which broke Australia’s hearts and clinched New Zealand victory in the 2008 World Cup final.

The premiership-winning playmaker last represented the Kiwis in 2012 but believes he is now mentally stronger than the player who was handed the New Zealand captaincy.

“I feel I have matured a lot since I last represented the Kiwis,” Marshall said.

“I have definitely grown more as a leader and the last time I was captain (of New Zealand), I was probably put into captaincy before I was ready.

“I changed too much in the style I wanted to play.

“When you become captain at a young age, you think you have to change everything and you don’t, you just have to be yourself.

“The Kiwis could probably benefit from some experience and if it (his selection) happens, I will grab it with both hands and contribute the way I have at the Broncos.”

Broncos coach Bennett, who will take charge of England at the World Cup, lauded Marshall’s mentoring of Brisbane halves Anthony Milford and Nikorima.

“The fun is back in Benji’s life,” he said. “In the past, he has been under pressure and the game wasn’t as enjoyable as it should have been.

“He has been allowed to be a player here.

“What’s changed is the place has relaxed him. Brisbane is a good lifestyle and he’s set a great example for our younger players.”

Source: Courier Mail