The NRC was formed to give Australia’s best young talent an opportunity to prove they are ready to take the next step in their careers.

With the 2016 season set to begin next weekend, Rugby News takes a look at a few players that will be out to impress throughout this year’s NRC.

Dave Horwitz – NSW Country Eagles

Horwitz was impressive for the Waratahs earlier this year but struggled for game time towards the end of the season. With Kurtley Beale off to the UK, the 21-year old has an opportunity to make the Tahs No.12 jersey his own if he can find his best form in the NRC. Interestingly, he’s joined by Kyle Godwin in the Eagles squad. Both players are strong ball runners with slick skills and could battle for the a Wallabies jersey in the years to come.

Jake McIntyre – Brisbane City

Jake McIntyre has to be one of the most unlucky rugby players in the country. A few years back, the 22-year old had the rugby world at his feet but was thrown in the deep end at the Reds far too early following Quade Cooper’s departure and has struggled to find his best at Super Rugby level. McIntyre will be under a lot less pressure for Brisbane City in the NRC and should be able to show us just how good he really is.

Andrew Ready – Brisbane City

Ready is already considered a future Wallaby and showed why for the struggling Reds this season. With Stephen Moore heading north next season, the 23-year old will be eager to make the most of the upcoming NRC.

Harry Jones – Sydney Rays

Warringah flyer Harry Jones has spent the last few seasons in the Waratahs system and will be out to prove that he is ready to play Super Rugby off the back of a strong NRC season. His Rays teammate, Sevens star Cam Clark will have similar intentions after inking a deal to head to Moore Park earlier this week.

Tom Staniforth – Canberra Vikings

Staniforth has dominated the club scene in Canberra for a number of years and showed glimpses of that form for the Brumbies this year from the bench. The 22-year old lock waited 700 days between his Super Rugby debut in 2014 and his second game earlier this year and will be out to impress his coaches throughout the NRC.