Buderus backs Hodgson to shine in NRL

Former Leeds Rhinos hooker Danny Buderus believes that Josh Hodgson has all the attributes required to be a success at Canberra Raiders.

Hodgson, who made his England debut during the 2014 Four Nations, left Hull KR in the close season, and is set to make his NRL debut for the Raiders this weekend against the Newcastle Knights.

Buderus, who also played for Newcastle during an illustrious career, feels that Hodgson’s stamina and skill will make him a hit with the Raiders fans.

“I’ve played against him a couple of times and I think Canberra has a real asset for their club there,” Buderus said.

“He can play a lot of minutes and is aggressive in what he does. He’s going to be a big player for them.

“He’s real efficient with his passing and has got a great long pass, works really hard and competes.

“They’re the big boxes you need to tick as a hooker and he’s got most of them covered.”

Buderus also thinks that the slower rucks in the NRL will be something new for Hodgson to deal with, certainly when compared with Super League.

“The ruck seems really slow here compared to the Super League,” he added.

“There’s more emphasis on defence and slowing that ruck down. It’s a shame.

“He’ll probably soon realise over in the Super League it’s a lot more free-flowing and more onus on attack.

“The opportunities you get are limited in the NRL. The ones you do get, you have to make the most of. When he does get that clear room to run, he has to take it.”