NRL: James Maloney deserves a Kangaroos test jersey

James Maloney takes on the line against the Storm during the NRL Grand Final in Sydney last night. Photo / Photosport

James Maloney has proved a grand final master, now give the man his Kangaroo jumper.

Unwanted by the Roosters at the end of last year, Maloney secured his second NRL premiership ring by helping steer Cronulla to its fairytale NRL premiership.

Playing his third decider in five years, Maloney was outstanding in attack - and almost setting up tries on two occasions - and also kicked strongly and booted three goals from as many attempts.

Indeed, his early penalty goal eventually proved the difference.

And now the 30-year-old is a chance for his maiden Australian Test jersey.

With the Kangaroos Four Nations team named on Monday, Maloney is a big chance to beat Brisbane Bronco Anthony Milford into the side.

Strong in his return to the NSW Origin side this year, Maloney has also previously represented the Prime Ministers XIII.

And with coach Mal Meninga having said he always wants to pick teams on today, not the future, who better than the bloke who has now added to his 2013 Roosters premiership.

While he has always been regarded as an NRL larrikin, Maloney proved his seriousness for this decider by skipping the Saturday wedding of his older brother Matt, of which he was a groomsman.

And it paid off.

Indeed, how hard is it to believe that this was the same bloke let go by the Tricolours?

And years before that, punted by Parramatta.

A decision that has paid huge dividends for Cronulla.