He's led his club in their time of need and now Daly Cherry-Evans is ready to do it for his state.
So says his NRL coach in Des Hasler, who believes the Manly star has all the experience necessary to guide Queensland into a new era.
Cherry-Evans is widely considered the frontrunner to lead the Maroons in this year's State of Origin series after the sudden retirement of Greg Inglis.
The Sea Eagles skipper is one of the NRL's form players, having steered an inexperienced side into the top eight with a three-game winning streak.
"He's been performing really well, Cherry. When he's been required to step up, he does that," Hasler said ahead of Saturday's clash with St George Illawarra.
"We know that he can do better. It's about that for this side, where they are with their development. We want to keep improving.
While some would consider Cherry-Evans' ascension to the Maroons captaincy a surprise, Hasler points to the 30-year-old's expansive resume.
Not only was he part of the Sea Eagles' 2011 NRL premiership win, he is the incumbent Kangaroos halfback with 13 Tests under his belt.
"He's been part of the Origin structure for Queensland," Hasler said.
"He's had some great grounding (from) players that have played before who he would've learned from. He understands what the Maroon culture is all about.
"He's used to big games, he's played in plenty of big games. Cherry himself brings a lot of experience as well, don't underestimate that."
After two years in the Origin wilderness, Cherry-Evans made a triumphant return when selected at halfback for the game-three dead rubber.
He replaced Ben Hunt, who earlier this week admitted it might be difficult reclaiming the No.7 jumper following Cherry-Evans' start to the year.
"I have ambitions to be in the (Queensland) team, that's the first thing," Hunt said.
"Daly's playing some great footy, so I've got to play great footy as well if I want to be in there. If he's the seven and I'm just in the team somewhere, I'll be happy."
Saturday's match at WIN Stadium also marks the 100th game for another Kangaroos representative in forward Jake Trbojevic.
They will however be without key prop Addin Fonua-Blake after he was suspended for two games for a careless high tackle.
STATS THAT MATTER
* Manly's worst win record is against St George Illawarra (33 per cent).
* Manly are looking to avoid giving up at least 32 points for the fourth straight game against the same opponent for just the second time in club history.
* The Dragons have won their past six and seven of their past eight against the Sea Eagles at WIN Stadium.
