Nathan Peats plays his 150th NRL game this Saturday against the Knights, but it is the two competition points on offer in Newcastle that are taking up most of the Titans hooker’s attention.
Peats says he’s proud of his achievement in reaching 150 games, and admits the milestone game was a long time coming after another season interrupted by injury.
“Obviously 100 games and 200 games are the big ones and so on, but it’s taken me a little bit longer than I would’ve liked (to reach 150),” Peats said.
“I debuted in 2011, so it has taken me a while. But I’ve obviously had some solid injuries in my time. But hopefully we get a win this weekend, that’s the most important thing.”
Peats started his career at the Rabbitohs and played 54 games there before moving west to Parramatta and then on to the Titans in 2016.
Peats has only managed to play 11 games so far this season after tearing his pectoral muscle in the gym. While he has been unlucky with injuries in previous years, he says he is happy with the resilience he has shown to get back on the park as quickly as possible.
“That’s just footy sometimes. Some get injuries, and some don’t,” he said. “Not everyone can be like Cameron Smith I guess, in my position.
“I’ve just been a little less fortunate in years gone past, but that’s footy sometimes. It’s a contact sport and you get injured sometimes, but I’m happy to be playing this weekend.”
Due to a host if injuries in the Titans’ squad, Peats has been forced to play at lock in recent weeks, although he will return to the No.9 jersey against the Knights.
While not something he is used to, Peats says he has been enjoying contributing to the team and adding more to his game by playing out of his regular position.
“It’s tough with the injuries we have, and with the players we have (available), Peats said. “Last week Moe Fotuaika was the only front rower we could pick from. That’s how it is.
“We’ve got Jai Arrow and Jai Whitbread who are both locks. Obviously Arrow can play front row, but on paper Moe was the only front-rower available.
“If that means I play lock, I’ll play lock. I don’t really care.
“You get your hands on the ball a bit and play that two-shape through the middle. It’s a similar job in defence. I’m in the middle the whole 80 minutes, so whatever is best for the team, I’ll do.”
