Top 5 current Super League stand-offs

Following on from the full-backs, wingers and centres, here are my top five Super League stand-offs on recent form.

5. Blake Austin (Warrington Wolves)

The maverick no.6 enjoyed a superb first Super League season and may have won the Man of Steel award but for injury. Austin is one of the most devastating ball runners in the competition and his recent displays against Castleford and Hull FC show he still has the confidence and ability to have a distinguished career with the Wolves.

4. Jacob Trueman (Castleford Tigers)

Trueman has taken Super League by storm since emerging in 2017 and has a very bright future ahead of him, for both Castleford and England. The 21-year-old’s speed and kicking game have helped the Tigers become serious contenders for silverware again and he was at the very top of his game prior to the season hiatus.

3. Robert Lui (Leeds Rhinos)

Arriving from Salford, Lui has helped transform Leeds from relegation fodder to play-off contenders. The former North Queensland stand-off was key to the Rhinos strong finish in 2019 and has engineered a wonderful half-back partnership with Luke Gale this season, emphasised in the heavy home wins over Hull KR, Toronto and Warrington.

2. James Maloney (Catalans Dragons)

Australian veteran James Maloney was leading New South Wales to State of Origin glory less than a year ago, such is his quality. He has excelled in the South of France so far and was at the heart of the Dragons three consecutive wins before the season was halted. Maloney is a class act and will make Catalans a different proposition in the coming years.

1. Jonny Lomax (St Helens)

Undoubtedly at the peak of his powers, Jonny Lomax was exceptional last season and has carried that form into 2020. His side-step, support play, kicking game, leadership and ability to take on the line makes him the complete package. While Lomax stays fit, Saints will have every chance of defending their Super League crown later in the year.