'Shop front window': Kerr paves way for emerging Indigenous talent

Josh Kerr, a representative forward, attributes the kickstart of his NRL career to the All Stars match and has encouraged rookies participating in the February 15 event to seize the chance to display their abilities.

Kerr was selected for the 2019 All Stars game in Melbourne by Indigenous coach Laurie Daley despite not having played an NRL game yet. He made his debut for the Dragons in the same season and has since accumulated over 100 NRL appearances.

At the age of 29, Kerr captained the Indigenous team in last year's clash against the Maori All Stars and has also earned a spot on the Queensland State of Origin roster.

With the Dragons set to compete in Las Vegas on February 28, Kerr is uncertain about his participation in what would be his eighth consecutive All Stars match. However, he views this as a potential opportunity for a rookie to step into his role.

While the 2026 All Stars match at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton is anticipated to showcase top players in the sport, it is also likely to include rising talents like Kerr (2019), Jamayne Taunoa-Brown (2020), and Shaquai Mitchell (2022), who donned an Indigenous jersey before making their NRL debuts.