Jason Ryles returned from a career-threatening shoulder injury in 2004 to confirm himself as the heir apparent to Shane Webcke as the game’s No.1 prop.

The powerful Ryles is one of the most feared front rowers in the NRL. He surged onto the rugby league scene in 2000 with his massive frame and big reputation.

Within two years he was Test footballer, touring with the Kangaroos and playing in the 2001 Ashes series. He made his State of Origin debut for NSW the following season, handling the step up in class with aplomb.

In 2003 he was back in the NSW side but a shoulder injury interrupted the remainder of his season, limiting him to nine NRL games and threatening his rugby league future.

But the determined Ryles returned midway through 2004 and quickly regained his form of the previous two seasons.

He was named in the NSW side for the third State of Origin game and, despite playing only 14 games, was selected in the Australian squad for the Tri-Nations tour.