CAN Will Kennedy be number one again in 2021?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
That is what the Bathurst rugby league talent is currently working towards as the Cronulla Sharks' incumbent fullback puts in the hard work at pre-season training.
Season 2020 will be one that Kennedy long remembers - it was the year in which he became an NRL regular for the Sharks and got his first taste of finals in Australia's elite competition.
He was offered a one-year contract extension in August for his efforts and drew praise from coach John Morris.
"Will's commitment to his game, coupled with his outstanding character and talent makes him a perfect fit for our club," Morris said.
But Kennedy is not the only option Morris has for the number one jumper.
While former representative fullback Matt Moylan and new Sharks recruit Luke Metcalf are more at home in the halves, they are both players Morris could use as custodian.
Josh Dugan spent time at fullback last season and though preferred at centre, has a host of experience in the number one jumper.
Then there's former Australian Schoolboy Connor Tracey.
Like Moylan and Metcalf his preferred position is in the halves, but he has spent time during the pre-season training at the back.
Still, the Sharks have a high opinion of Kennedy.
"The Bathurst boy has some silky skills," Sharks media said.
"Kennedy's line break assists last season (13) ranked him first amongst the Sharks team - yes, even more than Shaun Johnson who had 12 - and sixth out of all NRL fullbacks.
"Kennedy, who also made huge improvements to his support play and was ranked third in that NRL statistical category amongst fullbacks, has also enjoyed a strong pre-season under the guidance of Morris.
"Kennedy certainly appears to be the front runner for the fullback position."
