Hindmarsh return dependent on injury
Parramatta warhorse Nathan Hindmarsh has finally reclaimed his rightful spot in the Australian Test squad, but may have to give it up in favour of the Eels' quest for NRL grand final redemption.
Hindmarsh was one of six former Test players recalled into Australia's 24-man squad for the Four Nations tournament starting later this month after leading the Eels to the NRL grand final.
It ends two years in the representative wilderness for the workaholic second-rower who was unceremoniously dumped for the 2008 Centenary Test match at the SCG.
But Hindmarsh may not get to pull on the green and gold Kangaroos jumper because of a shoulder injury he carried throughout the NRL finals series.
Hindmarsh requires shoulder surgery and he will let Parramatta coach Daniel Anderson and club doctors decide his Test fate after they determine the length of his recovery time and off-season training plan.
Hindmarsh, 30, used painkilling injections throughout the finals and would be willing to do it again to add to his 20 Test caps.
"I'm pretty sure I can just carry on as I have been the last month," Hindmarsh told AAP on Wednesday.
"I've been playing with it the last month so it definitely won't keep me out of the game, it's just about the recovery time when I get back and what type of off-season I want.
"I just have to speak to the doctor and coach Anderson. It's basically what's going to be the best for me and the team at Parramatta.
"I don't fear (missing the tour), it would be very unfortunate if it doesn't happen."
Hindmarsh and fellow Eels star Jarryd Hayne head the list of recalled players, which also includes Ryan Hoffman, Cooper Cronk, Trent Waterhouse and Sam Thaiday.
It's a massive return to the rep scene for Hindmarsh who hasn't played for NSW since 2007 and was even overlooked for the Country Origin side this year.
Hindmarsh said news of his Test recall was a great "consolation prize" after missing out on an elusive NRL premiership last Sunday, and thanked his Eels teammates for helping him get back into the green and gold.
"It's been a couple of years, but I got back there so I'm very happy," he said.
"I take a lot of pride in the green and gold jersey.
"The jersey doesn't come lightly, not everybody gets a chance to play in it so you don't take it for granted.
"If we weren't in the grand final I don't think I would have been selected, that is for sure."
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