Following a breakthrough season with the Canberra Raiders, the 24-year-old halfback from Temora was pinpointed by Blues coach Ricky Stuart as a potential NSW hero when the squad selections were announced yesterday.

Fellow Riverina products Ryan Hinchcliffe (Melbourne Storm) and Joel Thompson (Canberra Raiders) were also among the list of players hand selected for possible Origin duty.

Minutes after hearing the news, McCrone told The Daily Advertiser he was honoured to be recognised.

“It’s pretty humbling,” he said.

“I was a bit shocked to be honest.

“I didn’t consider myself anything like an Origin player.

“It’s nice to think that you’re being watched and seen as a potential future Origin player.

“Joel (Thompson) and Ryan Hinchcliffe are also in the squad, he’s another Temora boy, so the Riverina always produces a few quality players.

“It was always my dream just to play in the NRL and I’m lucky enough to be doing that so I’ll just take it as it comes.”

The list, which was complied by Ricky Stuart and the Blues selectors, highlights players which have shown immense potential and will be considered to play State of Origin this season.

Although thrilled with his selection, McCrone is eager to concentrate on producing his best season possible with the Raiders.

“You don’t really look too far ahead, I just want to have a

successful season with the Raiders,” he said.

“It’s good that they’ve got a pathway to that level.

“Origin would just be a nice bonus.”

McCrone, Thompson and Hinchcliffe will attend a camp with Stuart and the rest of the emerging squad on January 20.

A range of positions could be on offer for the trio including

halfback, five-eighth and second-rower.