Less then two weeks out from the start of the 2016 National Rugby Championship, Sydney Rays captain Matt Lucas has told Rugby News he thinks his side is good enough to win the premiership.

“Absolutely, I think we can win it,” Lucas told Rugby News.

“The squad we’ve got together is really talented and everyone is really keen for success. We’ve got the right structures and the right coaching staff so ultimately it’s up to the players to turn up and perform.

“We’ve started to create a really enjoyable environment and hopefully that breeds success. We are definitely going out there to win it.”

The Rays missed the playoffs in 2014 and 2015 but have named an impressive squad for the third instalment of the national competition.

After leading Northern Suburbs to their first Shute Shield title in 41 years, Rays coach Simon Cron has included 13 Shoreman in his squad, with Lucas confident the Rays will benefit from that success.

“There is a bit of buzz around on the back of Norths win, which is great, but they are all focussed on the NRC now. They enjoyed the win for a few days but now the focus is on this new group and the season ahead.

“He (Cron) is a pretty intense character and obviously really loves the game and everything about it. He brings a real level of intensity to the group and that is what we need if we want to be successful.”

After a short stint in Italy, Lucas re-joined the NSW Waratahs full time squad ahead of the 2016 season but spent the majority of the season playing behind Wallabies scrumhalf Nick Phipps.

“I just look at this as an opportunity to get consistent minutes. I enjoyed my time with the Waratahs this year and I thought Phippsy (Nick Phipps) was great and although I learned a lot, I do want to play more minutes.

“The NRC will provide an opportunity for that. Hopefully I can show my point of difference and show what I can bring to the game.”

The Rays will have no shortage of depth at the base of the scrum, with former Brumby Michael Dowsett and impressive Southern Districts No.9 Dewet Roos also named in the playing squad.

“I rate both of them very highly and they were both very keen to come on board, which will only benefit the squad,” Lucas said.

“I’m going to be on my heels because they will both be putting pressure on me and hopefully we can learn from one another and play some good footy.”

The 24-year old said the inclusion of Aussie Sevens stars Cam Clark, Con Foley and Tom Cusack was another bonus.

“They’ve been out of the 15-a-side game for a while now so they’ll some time to adjust but ultimately, they’re all very good footballers and I think they are going to add a lot to the squad.”

The Rays open their season against the Western Sydney Rams at North Sydney Oval on August 28.