'He's earned that jersey': Kini happy to be No. 1 caretaker in Campbell's absence

Keano Kini has shared his excitement to be wearing the No. 1 jersey for next Saturday's season opener against the Dragons, but the teenage sensation has humbly suggested he is only a caretaker for that spot in the interim.

With Jayden Campbell set to miss at least Round 1 as he enters the final stages of rehab on his dislocated patella, the 19-year-old has been anointed the custodian of the coveted fullback position, but stopped short of suggesting he is wanting to dethrone his teammate in the short term.

"JC has earned that jersey," he said at Wednesday's season launch.

"Unfortunately he’s out injured at the moment. I’m just trying to come in and do a good job… keep the spot safe until he comes back.

"He’ll probably come back and retake it, but he’s earned it so I’ll just try and do my best while I’m there."

Making six NRL appearances in 2023 after his stellar debut at Magic Round, the Palm Beach Currumbin prodigy has revealed how much knowledge he's gained under his first Des Hasler pre-season, as well as a baptism of fire in the Titans' second trial against a red-hot Parramatta outfit in Ipswich last Sunday.

"I learned heaps. I’m still getting used to the NRL myself," Kini said.

"I’m just trying to step into JC and AJ’s role and do my best.

"Last week (against the Eels) was a bit of a learning curve, but I’m sure I’ll be ready for Round 1.

"It’s all a mentality and an attitude. Parramatta came out with the intent that we lacked in that trial. That’s what we’re working on. Next week we’ll be ready."