Brad Fittler could teach youngsters half his age a thing or two in his rugby league comeback at the NRL Nines this weekend, says his former premiership winning teammate Luke Ricketson.
Ricketson played nine seasons alongside Fittler at the Sydney Roosters including the tricolours' 2002 premiership win, and knows the 42-year-old as well as anyone.
The former NSW and Australian back-rower says Fittler has remained in good shape despite his ten seasons out of the NRL and is set to display some of the magic at the Nines that made him a rugby league great.
"I was surprised when I first heard about it because this is a big step up from playing in charity games," Ricketson told AAP.
"But I have seen him play in a couple different touch and OzTag competitions and he has still got it there is no doubt about that.
"He has got the skill to compete at that level, hopefully he doesn't get caught too much on his heels against these young pups that are flying at the moment and hopefully the Roosters can use him in the right manner.
"Because I think he can have an impact."
Ricketson said he was sure Fittler would be well prepared and wouldn't risk tarnishing his reputation by not being up to demands of the shortform tournament to be held at Eden Park before a sellout crowd on both Saturday and Sunday.
"He is serious about it," Ricketson said.
"Freddie wouldn't do anything without being prepared.
"He has always had that natural ability and that is what he will produce in the Nines.
"He will surprise a few people I'm sure.
"Against those 19-year old players half his age he will have to watch out won't he? But you never know, he might teach them a thing or two."
