Since his return from injury back in Round 17, Jamie Buhrer has spent most of his time starting at hooker and then filling different roles within the team when required.
A number of injuries this week sees him shift back out to the second row, a position that he started the season in and drew plenty of praise for his performances.
“I’ll play a bit more on the edge, which I certainly enjoy,” Buhrer said on Thursday morning before the team departed for Canberra.
“Through injuries and whatnot I’ve spent a lot more time in the middle, which I don’t mind doing as well.
“I’ll play wherever necessary to help the team, but I’m looking forward to playing on the edge.”
Buhrer was injured when the Knights recorded a 34-20 victory over the Raiders back in Round 10, but says this week’s opposition will come out all guns blazing on Friday night.
“They’re going to come out with a lot of intensity,” he stated.
“There’s been some great contests against the Raiders over the last couple of years, but from my standpoint they’re a team that’s going to be desperate.”
The Raiders narrowly lost to the Penrith Panthers at home last weekend, but like the Knights have recorded three wins from their past four matches.
“The past two weeks have been games that have been tough for us, but they’re the type of games you want to play in so we can see where we’re at,” Buhrer said.
20-year-old half Jack Cogger will also be making his first NRL appearance of 2017 after playing six first grade games last year.
Buhrer says he’s been impressed by the young playmaker.
“Jack’s got his opportunity and he’s worked hard to get back from injury earlier in the year.
“He’s had himself back in calculations for a number of weeks now being named in the initial 21-man squad, and now he gets his chance.
“Every session he’s had with us this week he’s grown in confidence, and I’m really confident he can do a job for us.”
In team news, Jack Stockwell and Jaelen Feeney drop from the squad for Round 25. The final 17 will be confirmed one hour before kick-off.
