Lindsay Collins has conceded he is no certainty to regain his Queensland State of Origin jersey as he battles to regain his best form after last year's knee injury.
Collins was arguably the Maroons' best forward when they won the series in 2020, topping the running metres for the Maroons and starring in the decider.
But he missed last year's series after a season-ending knee injury, and is by his own admission not yet back to his best with the Sydney Roosters, who have been fighting to find consistency.
Collins will have his last chance to push his claims against Cronulla's pack on Saturday night before Queensland coach Billy Slater names his squad next Monday.
"It's in Billy's hands," Collins said.
"All I can do is do my best. I personally don't think I am at my best yet. I think I still have a bit to go.
"You have to earn that jersey. Billy will make the decision on whether I have earned it or not."
Queensland have already lost Christian Welch from last year's pack, with the Maroons in search of a new starting partner for Josh Papali'in the front row.
Jai Arrow and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui are the other near-certainties in the middle, while Reuben Cotter, Moeati Fotuaika and Francis Molo shape as other options.
But Collins would still be expected to keep his spot, even with his numbers being well down on the past two years despite playing more minutes for the Roosters.
"The injury is fine, it's just getting back to that footy I was playing," Collins said.
"Just being out of the game for a whole year. I feel like I am building to where I was, just not 100 per cent there yet.
"It's just little things I need to tidy up, it's nothing major."
Meanwhile, the Sharks will learn on Tuesday how many players they will be missing against the Roosters.
Siosifa Talakai (ankle), Wade Graham (foot) and Ronaldo Mulitalo (shoulder) were all due for scans late on Monday, after being injured in their win over Gold Coast.
The Sharks are, however, hopeful that powerful centre Talakai's ankle is not as bad as first thought when he left the field, with the injury low in the joint.
Australian Associated Press
