‘I want to be there’: Addo-Carr issues Origin challenge

Bulldogs winger Josh Addo-Carr has expressed his ambition to earn a spot on the NSW team as he faces one of his toughest rivals on Thursday night.

This weekend’s matches provide the last chance for Blues hopefuls to convince coach Michael Maguire they deserve a spot in the State of Origin opener on June 5.

Despite playing in all three games last year, Addo-Carr has been under the radar this season. However, he’s eager to stand out when the Bulldogs face the Dragons at Accor Stadium on Thursday night.

“There’s no question I want to be there,” Addo-Carr said. “I want to be there, I want to earn my spot in that team.

“I want to play with the best players in the world, represent my state, especially my family and my community. That’s what it’s all about, I just want to keep earning it and we’ll see what happens.”

Addo-Carr will face off against Zac Lomax when the Bulldogs host the Dragons in the opening clash of Indigenous Round, with Lomax being one of his main rivals for a NSW wing position.

With Brian To’o almost guaranteed one flank, Addo-Carr and Lomax are part of a four-way competition for the other spot, alongside Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i and Penrith youngster Sunia Turuva.

Addo-Carr has experienced both the highs and lows of State of Origin, scoring 11 tries in 15 games and winning three series, but also enduring several disappointing defeats.

The speedster was dropped by former coach Brad Fittler in 2022 before regaining his position last year.

Addo-Carr’s club form this season has been impressive, and he hopes to prove he belongs in Maguire’s squad by outplaying Lomax and leading the Bulldogs to victory on Thursday night.

The Bulldogs will wear a special jersey during the game, which the proud Wiradjuri and Gunggandji man showcased on Monday afternoon. Additionally, a group of players received boots featuring artwork designed by students from Boots For Brighter Futures, which will be auctioned off after the match.

Addo-Carr has been at the forefront of the NRL‘s efforts to increase opportunities for First Nations people both on and off the field, and he urged the organization to ensure it remains a priority area moving forward.