Veteran calm

Warriors prop Jacob Lillyman is in no hurry to make a decision on his future — though the clock is ticking on a new deal.

The 33-year-old is off contract at the end of this season, one of many at the Auckland club uncertain about their playing destinations in 2018.

Lillyman is a genuine conundrum. He has given the club great service across 177 games, but his advanced age will count against him. He’s solid — rather than spectacular — though remains one of the most dependable front-rowers at the club.

That’s credit to the durable Queenslander, but also symptomatic of the Warriors’ situation.

The likes of Sam Lisone (50 NRL games), Albert Vete (39) and Charlie Gubb (36) should have claimed his spot by now, but they haven’t found the required consistency.

With Ben Matulino departing, the club might be tempted to offer Lillyman a new contract, given he is a known quantity.

The State of Origin representative is often criticised for his lack of aggression and line-bending ability, but Lillyman performs an important function. Across nine seasons at Mt Smart he averages almost 100 running metres, 11 carries and 21 tackles a match.

However Lillyman, who made his NRL debut (for the Cowboys) in 2003, is pragmatic about the future.

“I’m not putting pressure on anyone,” said Lillyman. “The club is making their own decision and that’s fine. I’ll just wait and see. After another couple of games I’ll give my manager a ring. It’s an old cliche but these things tend to take care of themselves . . . so we will see what happens.”

Lillyman wants to play at least one more season. Aside from a