The National Rugby Championship gives unsigned Australian rugby players an opportunity to prove they are ready to play at a higher level. Ahead of this weekend's opening match, Rugby News has hand picked a number of non-contracted stars that appear ready to impress. Will Miller – Northern Suburbs/Sydney Rays Miller was crowned King of the North after leading Northern Suburbs to their first Shute Shield premiership in 41 years earlier this month. The hardworking 23-year old flanker received the Ken Catchpole medal in 2016 and will play with the Sydney Rays in the upcoming NRC. Away from rugby, Miller still works full time on the family dairy farm in Berry. Conor Mitchell – UQ/QLD Country UQ backrower Conor Mitchell has one Australian Sevens cap to his name after making his debut in Vancouver but is still without a fulltime contract. The 22-year old captained an Australian Sevens development side earlier this year and will play with QLD Country in the NRC after leading UQ to t