Cameron King will use the Dragons' blockbuster encounter against the Rabbitohs in the annual Charity Shield clash as an audition for a starting role as hooker.
King, named on the bench for the ANZ fixture, has only played one NRL game – coincidentally a victory over South Sydney in Round 26 last season – but that hasn’t stopped the 20-year-old aiming high.
With Dean Young utilized at both hooker and second-row for the red V outfit, King is competing against Nathan Fien and Mitch Rein for a starting berth against the Knights on March 1 in the NRL season opener.
“The Charity Shield is a traditional fixture that’s always good to be a part of,” King told Dragons.com.au.
“Last year was my first one and it’ll be a good chance for me to stake my claim for a spot come Round 1.
“Knowing that I was in the mix for the hooker spot helped me want to come back that little bit harder.
“There’s good competition for the spot with several players which is only good for the team overall.”