MAKE IT REIN

NRL outcast set to put the heat on Origin star Nathan Peats for Titans role

A COUPLE of years ago, Mitch Rein’s stocks were rising fast as he propelled himself into contention for a State of Origin debut.

Now, after a rollercoaster ride, he is the back-up to the man who instead succeeded Robbie Farah as NSW hooker.

Rein’s tenure at St George Illawarra met a tumultuous end resulting in him joining Penrith on a two-year deal, only for limited opportunities to spark a switch to the Titans.

And while his path on the Gold Coast appears blocked by first-choice rake Nathan Peats, Rein is ticking all the boxes to reignite his NRL career.

Titans staff have been delighted with what they have seen of the 27-year-old since his single season contract was announced in November.

“He has come in and competed really hard with Nathan Peats, who is the best competitor there is, so to have Mitch come in and push him has only raised the standard,” said Gold Coast head of performance Hayden Knowles.

“Scotty Campbell who is handling the strength coaching area for me, is saying Mitch Rein is pound for pound the strongest in the team.

“He has been fantastic.” Rein’s attitude has been noticed at the top, with Titans chief executive Graham Annesley applauding his efforts.

“He wants to do really well and trains really hard,” he said.

The veteran of 137 NRL games is likely to battle it out with Karl Lawton for a spot in the top 17 for Round 1.

Further good reports out of Parkwood indicate Konrad Hurrell is in excellent condition despite battling niggles in the back half of the 2017 season and the World Cup where he represented Tonga.

“If I was a fan, I would be excited,” Knowles said.

“He (Hurrell) is actually stronger and focused and fitter.”