He may have been a glaring omission in a new-look Emerging Maroons squad but North Queensland hooker Jake Granville is one step closer to State of Origin selection.
Granville spent the past two years at the Emerging Maroons camp but he appeared to have slipped in the pecking order when Queensland coach Kevin Walters announced his streamlined 2018 squad.
Walters this year opted for a smaller 11-strong squad for his Gold Coast camp - and Cowboys No.9 Granville missed the cut.
But Granville said Walters rang and told him he had "graduated" from the Emerging Maroons, reassuring the livewire rake that he was still in the mix to, one day, take over from evergreen Queensland skipper Cameron Smith.
"Kevvie gave me a quick call to let me know that I wasn't needed for that camp," the 28-year-old said.
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"I wasn't disappointed (to miss Emerging Maroons).
"And I enjoyed every moment that I got to be in those camps - I learned a lot."
Eight players in 2017 made their Origin debuts after being involved in the camp.
However, it appears Granville may still have to bide his time before tasting Origin with inspirational Maroons No.9 Smith showing no signs of slowing down.
In the meantime, off contract Granville said he would look to improve his kicking game this season for last year's NRL grand finalists in a bid to remain in Walters' sights - and earn a new Cowboys deal.
"Origin would be any young fella's goal," Granville said.
"But it's all about playing good footy, mate.
"I will keep concentrating on improving every season.
"I am working on my kicking this season. It's another attacking perspective we can add."
