League: Steve Price now third oldest ...

Steve Price. Photo / Getty Images

Steve Price has moved to third on the list of oldest Kangaroos test league players, and could reach No 2 if his age-defying deeds continue.

The durable New Zealand Warriors captain, aged 35 years and 57 days, will trot on to Suncorp Stadium tonight against the Kiwis.

In recent months he moved past Darren Smith (34 years and 349 days v Great Britain, 2003) and Mick Madsen (34 years and 306 days v England, 1936) into the top-three, according to Australian league statistician David Middleton.

Price signed on last week for another season at the Warriors in 2010, and he would have to play in next year's Anzac test to move to second, past Billy Wilson (36 years and 23 days v New Zealand, 1963).

Even Price would admit he's at huge odds to reach No 1, held by Sandy Pearce at 38 years and 158 days, against England in 1921.

Price was curious to know where he stood on the list but insisted it was never a motivation. "I wouldn't have a clue [about the age rankings]. You don't play to reach those kind of things.

"It's hard enough trying make a football team let alone worrying about that stuff," he said. "While I'm playing in the NRL I'm going to make myself available for Australia and Queensland, and if they pick me it's because I'm playing good footy ..."

SENIOR ROOS TEST PLAYERS
* Sandy Pearce, 38 years and 158 days v England, November 5, 1921.
* Billy Wilson, 36 years and 23 days v New Zealand, June 22, 1963.
* Steve Price, 35 years and 57 days v New Zealand, May 8, 2009.
* Darren Smith, 34 years and 349 days v Great Britain, November 22, 2003.
* Mick Madsen, 34 years and 306 days v England, July 18, 1936.

- NZPA