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James Tedesco has no plans to turn his back on the NSW captaincy and State of Origin, insisting representative retirement is not an option and his body is capable of another gruelling series.
On the eve of his sixth straight finals campaign with the Roosters, Tedesco has opened up about his ambition to continue leading the Blues despite criticism over his performances in NSW’s second straight series loss.
Coach Brad Fittler kept faith with the 30-year-old for game three this year, and Tedesco starred as the Blues salvaged some pride and avoided a rare clean sweep.
Asked whether he wanted to continue playing at Origin level, Tedesco said: “Definitely.
“I’m not getting old where my body can’t take it anymore. I’ve played a lot of games this year and my body is still feeling good. I want to keep playing well and keep getting those opportunities.”
While NSW have an abundance of options at fullback with Penrith’s Dylan Edwards, Manly’s Tom Trbojevic and South Sydney’s Latrell Mitchell capable of filling the No.1, Tedesco will also have to ward off the threat of Queensland’s Reece Walsh and Kalyn Ponga for the Australian jersey.
James Tedesco wants to play on for the Blues.Credit: Getty
The Kangaroos are due to play an end-of-season tournament against World Cup finalists Samoa and New Zealand.
But the former Dally M Medallist insists he can keep justifying his position at representative level, which will be helped if the Roosters can shine in this year’s finals series.
“I don’t think I was that bad [during the Origin series], but I wasn’t at my best,” he said. “Even though I haven’t been at my absolute best, it’s been better [recently].
“We’re winning games. My confidence is always high, but it can get degrading when you’re not playing your best, and you’re not getting results and people are criticising you.
“I always hold myself to high standards. I’m constantly thinking what I can do to get back to my best, what changes can I make on and off the field, and it’s easy to stay in the same routine and mindset because I’ve done it for so long.
“But when it becomes stale, you’ve got to make some changes.”
The Roosters have won five straight games to sneak into the finals and face a daunting elimination clash against the Sharks at PointsBet Stadium, which will only hold about 13,000 fans due to the ongoing redevelopment of the adjoining leagues club.
If the Roosters can make a deep run in the finals it might give Tedesco a few nervous moments with his wife, Maria, pregnant with their first daughter. Her due date is in grand final week.
“Hopefully [we qualify and the baby] comes at the start of the week, and then it will be one of the best weeks ever,” Tedesco said.
“I’m looking forward to it. I’m 30 now and I’m at a good age. I’m really settled, my wife and I both can’t wait. She’s going to be a great mum and I can’t wait to be a dad.”
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