The traditional Anzac Day clash isn't the only occasion on the rugby league calendar that Russell Packer wants to represent his country with pride.
The St George Illawarra prop has set his sights on using the annual fixture to end a seven-year wait for a Kiwi jumper in the Test against Australia in less than a fortnight.
The last time Packer was wearing black in 2011, Benji Marshall was the captain and Kevin Locke the fullback of a Kiwis side that were pumped 28-6 by England.
But after helping propel the Dragons to the top of the NRL ladder, Packer is aiming to complete his redemption from jail inmate to Kiwi teammate.
"I've represented my country before when I was 22 years old and I probably didn't appreciate it as much as what I should've, looking back now as a 27-year-old," Packer told AAP.
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"I'd love the opportunity to get another chance to be in that jersey and if they need me, I'd be more than willing to put my hand up."
And he'll have no better chance to impress Kiwis coach David Kidwell than in front of a packed house at Allianz Stadium against one of the competition's heavyweights.
He'll come up against a heralded Roosters pack featuring fellow countryman and incumbent Kiwis prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, as well as the possible return of Dylan Napa from injury.
Roosters youngster Latrell Mitchell is expected to be left out after appearing for feeder club Wyong Roos in NSW Cup on the weekend.
Packer, who is averaging 95 metres in 44 minutes this season, credited his strong start to the year to the Dragons' conditioning regimen.
"It's pretty evident - we're all a lot fitter. I don't think I've ever been this fit in my entire time in the league. Everyone's lost weight under the new sports science guys here," he said.
Packer's form has also reportedly caught the eye of rival clubs, including the Wests Tigers, who are looking for a replacement for the likely departure of Aaron Woods.
Packer said the faith the Dragons showed on his return from a one-year stint behind bars meant an extension was his first choice.
"Hopefully we can get something done - my family's settled here and it's been a great club to me," Packer said.
STATS THAT MATTER
* The Roosters' 42-6 win in their most recent clash in round 24 last year equalled their biggest against the club, and the biggest loss by the Dragons last year.
* The Dragons' current average 27.3 points per game is the most in the joint venture's history, and comes after averaging 14.2 per game last year - their lowest.
* The 15 tries scored by the Dragons' left edge is most in the league, and the 13 scored by the Roosters' left edge is second.
