Adam Reynolds is ready for the step up to State of Origin, his South Sydney coach Michael Maguire believes.
Reynolds faces in-form Brisbane halves Anthony Milford and Ben Hunt in a perfect chance to press his NSW halfback claims in his 100th NRL game against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.
NSW great Steve Mortimer wants Reynolds to wear the Blues No.7 this year, and Maguire says he is ready.
"He has grown to be a really strong halfback," Maguire said.
"If he can get his game right, there is really no reason why he can't be there.
"It comes down to (NSW coach) Laurie (Daley) and which way he wants to go but the signs I am seeing now, how he is pushing the team around the park, he is ready.
"It was just unfortunate that he had that jaw injury. But when he gets a few games under his belt there is no reason why he can't go into that arena."
Reynolds returned from a jaw injury suffered in round one in last week's hammering at the hands of North Queensland. Maguire said he is better for the run ahead of the round eight clash against the Broncos.
"People talk about his kicking game, but I think his biggest strength is how he pushes the team around the park," Maguire said of his 2014 premiership winner.
"That is something he has had to learn over the last few years. He is a player who gets out there and commits to every play.
"The next challenge for Adam is to put himself forward on Friday night against the Broncos, that will determine where he goes."
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