In both attack and defence, the centre position is one of the most crucial positions in the NRL.

Centres lead the edge defence, deciding to charge out of the line or slide, and are often the last hands to touch the ball before a try.

It might come as a surprise then, that some of the best centres in the game are 22 and younger. Some names in this list have won grand finals or played for their country, with more additions to their resume coming soon. 

Others have shocked the world with how quickly they have not only held their own but dominated their opposition.

Here are the five best centres in the NRL aged 22 or younger.

4. Izack Tago - 20

Debuting for the Panthers last year during the Origin period and when they faced a few injuries, Tago has made a name for himself this season. Matt Burton was the NRL's best centre in 2021.

Penrith hasn't looked any different with Tago, who had played six games before this year. While that is a compliment to Penrith's structures, it shows how incredible Tago has been.

So far this season Tago has five tries, four try assists, 23 tackle breaks, four line breaks and is running just under 140 metres a game. His numbers are ludicrous and with more experience, I only expect him to improve.

NRL Rd 1 - Panthers v Sea Eagles
PENRITH, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 10: Izack Tago of the Panthers celebrates with team mates after scoring a try during the round one NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and the Manly Sea Eagles at BlueBet Stadium on March 10, 2022, in Penrith, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)