Bulldogs’ five-eighth Matt Burton has declared that his development as a player has prepared him to return to the State of Origin team. The playmaker delivered an outstanding last State of Origin audition on Thursday night, leading Canterbury to a 44-12 victory over the Dragons. Burton is in contention for selection in the halves, centre, or as a bench utility, and has stated that he is eager to play any position if it means representing NSW for the first time since 2022.
“Having that experience in the past helps,” Burton explained. “I feel more adult now, and I am definitely ready. “I’d be thrilled to play anyplace. That adaptability helps, but I’m just hoping to get that call.”
Matt Burton 1st Try
While Burton is expected to be named when NSW coach Michael Maguire names his selection on Monday, his exact position could be determined by the health of the players surrounding him. NSW has lost a number of halves and centres to injury in recent weeks, making Maguire’s task even more difficult. Halfback Nathan Cleary will be out for at least the first two games, Mitchell Moses hasn’t played since Round 3, and Nicho Hynes and Cody Walker are all nursing calf injuries.
The centres have also been ravaged, with Tom Trbojevic and Bradman Best suffering hamstring problems. Kotoni Staggs damaged a rib last weekend, while Latrell Mitchell only recently returned from suspension. Stephen Crichton, the Bulldogs’ captain, is expected to occupy one place, but the other centre spot remains available. While Burton is open to playing wherever, Canterbury coach Cameron Ciraldo hopes he gets a chance in the halves.
Matt Burton 2nd Try
“He’s going a lot better but the sky’s the limit for him,” Ciraldo said. “If he puts it all together, it’s not going to be a debate if he’s in that team.
“He’s done a fair bit the last couple of weeks and put himself in the frame for that team. If he gets picked, it’s an opportunity I’m sure he’ll grab with both hands.”
Burton endured a testing 2023 season with the Bulldogs but has steadily worked his way into the 2024 campaign amid an improved Canterbury side.
The turnaround comes on the back of a number of tough conversations with Ciraldo, who challenged Burton to elevate his game.
Bulldogs v Dragons – Round 12, 2024
The impact of those chats is now on display on the field and the youngster is determined to continue building, whether with the Blues or the Bulldogs.
“[Ciraldo] just talks about little effort areas,” Burton said. “What I can do to inspire the team, putting them in the corner, chasing the little defensive efforts.
“Running the ball, that’s when I’m at my best, if I can keep doing that, I’ll be good.”
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