Although we’re now ‘only’ less than two months away from the NRL season, it still seems like an eternity for those of us who live and breathe rugby league.

Right now I am looking forward to anything involving a ball that isn’t round being broadcast on my screen. No this is not a shot at soccer, or cricket, both of which I am huge fans, but to put it bluntly, I miss my rugby league.

Below are ten of the rugby league themed moments I am looking forward to in 2017.

33. The New South Wales Side

Top 10 - What I’m Looking Forward To In 2017
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JULY 13: James Tedesco of the Blues, Aaron Woods of the Blues and David Klemmer of the Blues sing the national anthem before game three of the State Of Origin series between the New South Wales Blues and the Queensland Maroons at ANZ Stadium on July 13, 2016 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

I honestly can’t remember the last time New South Wales were so stocked with talent. The side picked for Origin One is going to be more about who misses out rather than who is picked as Laurie Daley and co face selection decisions such as Tedesco vs Hayne.

Mansour (when fit), Ferguson, Morris, Morris, Turbo, Croker, Leilua, Jennings, Dugan, and Jack Bird are going to have to be culled to four backline positions, although Hayne may be added there as well should Tedesco get the nod at the back.

The emergence of Nathan Cleary, Mitch Moses and Chad Townsend may place pressure on the likes of James Maloney, Adam Reynolds and Matt Moylan.

In the back row, Wade Graham and Trent Merrin will battle to replace Paul Gallen. Is Bryce Cartwright ready for the call-up? Exciting stuff.