Johns: The Bulldog that would make for 'an ideal Origin player'

Matty Johns thinks that Bulldogs centre Bronson Xerri could be in line for an Origin debut with New South Wales in 2026.

While he’s only played 65 NRL matches in his career, the centre has certainly been through a lot in that time.

After breaking into Cronulla’s first team at the age of 19 back in 2019 and winning the Sharks’ rookie of the year award, Xerri was hit with a four-year ban from the sport.

This was on the basis of the 25-year-old failing a drug test for anabolic steroids.  

Following his four-year ban from the sport, which concluded in 2023, Xerri signed with the Bulldogs and has been a mainstay in the side.

The centre has played a part in the Dogs’ return to finals football back in 2024, having scored 19 tries across his 43 matches whilst averaging 135 run metres last season.

Speaking about the quality that the Bulldogs possess on their side, the 1997 premiership player believes that the 25-year-old is capable of making his Origin debut in 2026, despite the considerable quality that the Blues already have in the No. 3 and 4 jerseys.

“The centres spot has so much depth in New South Wales’ (Origin side),” he said on SEN’s Morning Glory with Matty Johns.

“But you could pick him (Bronson Xerri) in there. He is an ideal Origin player.

“Great in yardage, great finisher, super strong in defence.”   

Having beaten the Knights 28 to nil in their last pre-season match, the Bulldogs are now gearing up for their season opener against the Dragons.

That will be played on March 1 at Allegiant Stadium.