Durable Smith rates as shoo-in for Dally M
IMMORTAL Andrew Johns says Cameron Smith is far from finished dominating the NRL and could join him as a three-time Dally M Medal winner before he retires.
Smith is an unbackable favourite to collect his second player-of-the-year award at tonight’s Dally M Medal night in Sydney.
The Melbourne Storm captain has been the most dominant player in the NRL this
season, with some betting agencies already paying out on him collecting the game’s highest individual honour.
Smith, 34, collected his first Dally M Medal in 2006 and to win a second 11 years later would show the remarkable consistency the Kangaroos and Maroons captain has produced throughout his career.
Johns won three Dally M Medals (1998-99, 2002) during the prime of his career and Johnathan Thurston (2005, 07, 14-15) is the only player to have won the award four times.
Smith is contracted with the Storm for 2018 and Johns said he could claim another before he hangs up the boots.
“If he stays injury free he could win another one,” he said.
“He amazes me every time I watch him. He is an out-andout superstar. He plays the same every week.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s at Campbelltown, State of Origin or a Test match. He is a pleasure to watch.
“My body broke down towards the end of my career but he’s fully fit and keeps getting better. His body keeps withstanding everything. It’s amazing. He’s such a smart player.
“He’s a joy to watch, except when he plays for Queensland.”
The Storm will fly into Sydney today in preparation for Sunday’s grand final against the Cowboys at ANZ Stadium.
If Smith does claim his second Dally M gong tonight he will have little opportunity to celebrate.
Melbourne are hot favourites to beat the Cowboys in the decider and North Queensland coach Paul Green said Smith’s form this season typified the Storm’s dominance.