After guiding Queensland to a famous Origin series win and claiming both the Wally Lewis Medal and man of the match honours in the decider, Tom Dearden is in the form of his life.
But he’s not rushing to claim the Kangaroos No.7 jersey just yet.
The 24-year-old was instrumental in the Maroons’ 24–12 victory at Accor Stadium, scoring two tries, setting up two more, and producing a clutch try-saving tackle on Blues winger Brian To’o.
It capped a breakout series after Billy Slater made the bold call to drop Daly Cherry-Evans and declare: “It’s Tom Dearden’s time.”
"All I can worry about is going back and playing good footy"
While many believe Dearden has now earned the right to lead Australia in the Ashes tour of England later this year, the man himself was quick to pour cold water on the idea, at least for now.
MORE: Laurie Daley defiant despite NSW Blues' horror loss
“I think Nathan Cleary is the best player in the game, so he's the No.7 no matter what,” Dearden said. “Of course, I'd love to be involved in the squad, but it's something that we don't have to think about until the end of the year.”
Dearden was part of the Kangaroos setup during last year’s Pacific Championships, partnering Mitchell Moses in the halves and winning player of the final. But with Cleary and Cameron Munster expected to return, Dearden knows selection won’t come easy.
“There are so many great players for the Kangaroos, so I don't know what they're going to do, but I'd certainly love to be involved in the squad and be a part of the conversations,” he said. “But it's out of my control, and all I can worry about is going back and playing good footy for the Cowboys.”
For now, Dearden’s focus is on club footy, but his Origin heroics have made sure his name will be in every Kangaroos conversation come October.