NEWCASTLE could field a record Queensland contingent in this year's State of Origin series after Maroons coach Kevin Walters revealed on Monday he was closely monitoring several in-form Knights.
Newcastle fullback Kalyn Ponga, who has played three Origins in the past two seasons, would appear a certain selection, while versatile Kurt Mann will also come into calculations for a bench-utility spot.
In addition, winger Hymel Hunt - who has not missed a game for the Knights since arriving at the start of last season - is also on Walters' radar, while rookie centres Enari Tuala and Gehamat Shibasaki are potential bolters if the Knights can finish the season strongly.
This year's Origin series will be played after the grand final, for the first time in history, which should benefit players involved in the post-season.
The Knights, who are currently sixth and have a five-point gap on the ninth-placed Wests Tigers with six rounds remaining, appear set to feature in the play-offs for the first time since 2013.
None of the three Queensland teams - Brisbane, Gold Coast and North Queensland - have any realistic hope of reaching the finals.
Newcastle's record Queensland representation in any Origin series was two players, Ponga and prop Tim Glasby, in games one and two last year.
"There's a good Maroons flavour at Newcastle this year, for whatever reason," Walters told the Newcastle Herald.
"They should be there in the finals, and it's good to see. When the Knights are playing well - which they are - it's good for the game.
"They've got a great supporter base there and, given they've got quite a few Queenslanders, we'll be keeping a close eye on them."
Mann has been arguably Newcastle's best player this season and has underlined his versatility by switching from five-eighth to hooker without missing a beat.
"Kurt was in the Queensland under-20s when I coached them a few years ago, and I worked with him a little bit at Melbourne Storm," Walters said.
"He's a good fella and I'm certainly aware of his talents.
"He's got some good experience now, and we've seen a real rise in his game this year.
"He's playing some great footy. Obviously he covers a few positions, so he's got that utility value, which is vital in any team."
Queensland's bench utilities last season were Moses Mbye and Michael Morgan.
Hunt, also a former Queensland under-20s representative, has strung together 38 consecutive games for the Knights, scoring 14 tries.
"Hymel, we're aware of him and what he's been doing over the last 18 months or so," Walters said.
"He's been impressive as well. He's a very reliable player."
Queensland's wingers last season were Corey Oates, who is currently injured, and Dane Gagai, who is playing in the centres.
Tuala and Shibasaki are both inexperienced, having played in 31 and 19 NRL games respectively, but Walters said: "Centre is one position that we're looking very closely at, so I suppose we need to keep an eye on all our guys who play there."
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