Hoffman 18th man for Kangaroos

Dynamic Melbourne Storm second-rower Ryan Hoffman has been called into the Australian Kangaroos squad as 18th man for tomorrow night’s Bundaberg Rum Test Match against New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium.

Hoffman made his representative debut for City Origin last year. His call-up to the Kangaroos squad caps off a tremendous start to the 2007 Telstra Premiership season.

The call-up for Hoffman came through early this morning.

“Craig (Bellamy) called me at about 8:00am,” said Hoffman.

“He said they were talking about having an 18th man and they mentioned me because I can cover a few positions, so they’re getting me up there this afternoon.

“No one is injured or in any doubt, they wanted me there in case anything does happen to one of the other players.”

As with every rugby league player, it’s been a dream of Hoffman’s to play for his country, but he has been given no promises about this Friday night.

“I’ve always dreamed of this. Obviously I want to play, but I’ll only play if someone gets hurt which no-one would wish on anyone. I’m just glad to be a part of it in any way, shape or form and I’m really excited,” said Hoffman.

“It’s going to be great to be a part of the team. I’m only down as an emergency just in case someone goes down in training or the warm-up, but it’s just great to be a part of the Australian set-up to see how it all works.”