Sydney Roosters five-eighth Braith Anasta has declared himself a definite starter for the season kick-off and immediately placed all the pressure on first-round rival South Sydney.
Anasta has not played since breaking his ankle in June but will make his return against the Souths, who will field their strongest team in more than two decades.
There has been plenty of excitement surrounding the Rabbitohs – thanks mainly to the dual signings of Dave Taylor and Sam Burgess – but with that comes increased expectation, Anasta warned ahead of Sunday's ANZ Stadium clash.
"There is a lot of hype around Souths. They bought well and have gone well in the trials," the Roosters captain said on Monday.
"They seem to be buzzing (and) are looking for a big year and are pretty confident."
"The Rabbits have got the wood on us. Last year they beat us twice."
"It's going to be hard and a big challenge for us first up."
"But I suppose there's a bit more pressure on them than us. There are no expectations on us," Anasta said.
Anasta bypassed the trials in a bid to concentrate on a first round comeback, believing the extra time in rehab would help him meet his target.
"It's the longest I haven’t played footy since I was about four so I'm itching to get out there," Anasta said.
"I had the freedom of not playing the trials and just getting prepared for the first game."
"Everything has been fantastic so far and unless there is a mishap I will be playing."
"I'm a bit nervous but excited…everyone around here is excited too."
Anasta expected to start Sunday's game at five-eighth but may find himself shifting positions if manufactured full-back Todd Carney was brought closer to the action.
The Roosters will name their team at their season launch on Monday night, with new signing Jason Ryles expected to be chosen at prop despite battling a quad injury during the pre-season.