Rising nib Newcastle Knights star Tex Hoy looks set to earn his NRL debut when the competition resumes on May 28.
At least that's according to Coach Adam O'Brien, who confirmed the news today via a Zoom hookup with the media.
"Tex Hoy will start at fullback for that first game back," O'Brien said.
"Based on his time-trial today, I think Tex has a really good idea.
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"He was outstanding with his running today, and by all reports he's left no stone unturned (during the shutdown period)."
Hoy would be brought into the side to cover for regular custodian Kalyn Ponga, who will be unavailable in round three thanks to a one match suspension he earned against the Wests Tigers back in March.
The 20-year-old son of surfer Matt Hoy is coming off an incredible pre-season.
The young gun burst onto the scene at the Perth Nines, before two strong performances in trials against the Dragons and Roosters put him in contention for a first grade start.
"If I'm going to stick true to my word and say that jersey's will be earned here, they won't be given away no matter what the circumstance, then I can live to that in this case with Tex," O'Brien said.
"He's earned it.
"He's trained really hard."
Despite the strong endorsement, O'Brien was quick to point out the discussion was far from over.
"He's got some work to do, we've still got three more weeks to get through so I don't want him putting the slippers on just yet." he said.
"But it's his for the taking now."
