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 the QLD Premier Rugby grand final.

Dewet Roos – Southern Districts/Sydney Rays

Southern Districts halfback Dewet Roos’ playing style combines the best attributes of Will Genia and Josh Holmes. The nippy rake can create something from nothing and loves to attack from anywhere on the park. Roos thrived playing behind the big Southern Districts forward pack this year but will need to compete with Matt Lucas and Mike Dowsett for NRC game time this season, after moving north to join the Rays.

Jamie Kotz – Gungahlin/Canberra Vikings

20-year old Gungahlin flyer Jamie Kotz was the leading tryscorer in the 2016 John I Dent Cup this year and has been picked up by the Vikings for this year’s NRC. “You could almost make a game plan out of getting the ball to him in a one on one situation and you’d back him to score every time,” club coach Dan Atkins said.

Folau Fainga’a – Sydney Uni/NSW Country Eagles

Sydney Uni hooker Folau Fainga’a was one of the Students best this season and often outplayed his contracted teammates that played around him. Still only 21, Fainga’a played Australian U20s last year and almost received a Super Rugby call up this season through injury. He’ll play alongside Tolu Latu for the NSW Country Eagles in this years NRC and will impress with every opportunity he gets.