Wests Tigers coach Mick Potter has named debutant Jack Buchanan to start at prop against Newcastle in Round 1 of the NRL.
It is a surprise call up for the youngster who was given his chance after a raft of injuries in the Wests Tigers front row.
The St-George Illawarra junior was recruited to Wests Tigers after impressing in the NYC.
Buchanan was one of the stars of the 2012 National Youth Competition, averaging 145m per game to be ranked 5th in the NYC for most metres.
He was also ranked 6th in the NYC for most runs. Defensively, Buchanan was ranked fourth for most tackles in the NYC.
Wests Tigers Captain and hooker Robbie Farah said he has been impressed with Buchanans commitment at training.
Jack is a young kid who has trained really well all pre-season. He has got a big future ahead of him, Farah said.
JACK BUCHANAN'S PLAYER PROFILE
BUCHANAN MOVES A STEP CLOSER TO NRL DREAM
BUCHANAN RELISHING OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY UNDER MICK POTTER
It is a surprise call up for the youngster who was given his chance after a raft of injuries in the Wests Tigers front row.
The St-George Illawarra junior was recruited to Wests Tigers after impressing in the NYC.
Buchanan was one of the stars of the 2012 National Youth Competition, averaging 145m per game to be ranked 5th in the NYC for most metres.
He was also ranked 6th in the NYC for most runs. Defensively, Buchanan was ranked fourth for most tackles in the NYC.
Wests Tigers Captain and hooker Robbie Farah said he has been impressed with Buchanans commitment at training.
Jack is a young kid who has trained really well all pre-season. He has got a big future ahead of him, Farah said.
JACK BUCHANAN'S PLAYER PROFILE
BUCHANAN MOVES A STEP CLOSER TO NRL DREAM
BUCHANAN RELISHING OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY UNDER MICK POTTER
