Try-scoring freak Jonathon Reuben's quest to become one of the oldest debutants in NRL history

The greatest try-scorer outside the NRL is finally closing in on a long-awaited shot at the big time.

After making his Dragons debut in the trial victory over Parramatta last week, Jonathon Reuben is pushing for inclusion in St George Illawarra's Charity Shield squad as he attempts to become one of the oldest debutant in NRL history.

Keen viewers of the Queensland Cup, where Reuben scored 107 tries in 106 games from 2015 to 2021, will already be familiar with the 28-year old's work as one of the most prolific finishers outside first grade.

And after impressing the Red V's brains trust against the Eels, where he scored a try with a sharp finish in the corner, Reuben is closer than ever to following the likes of Cody Walker and Jamal Fogarty in securing a belated NRL debut following years honing his skills in the state league. 

«For a 28-year-old, you wouldn't think this opportunity would come around again. I just want to take it with two hands and put my best foot forward every day,» Reuben said.

«The atmosphere was awesome. Being in the sheds before the game, seeing all the professionals and how they warm up and prepare, it was a great experience to be around that environment again.

»They were really happy. Hook (NRL coach Anthony Griffin) and Russ (NSW Cup coach Russell Aitken), all the coaches said they were really happy with my performance even though I only played 20 minutes.

«Fingers crossed he pulls me into his office and says I'm playing, but we'll see what happens. If you get named in the Charity Shield you know you've done something for the club, you've made a good impression, so I'll just hope I'll get that tap on the shoulder.»

Reuben is currently signed on a development deal, meaning he's guaranteed a spot in the