After a year that saw him first return and then captain the Kiwis, Benji Marshall is relishing the chance to run out for the final Test of 2019 against Great Britain in Christchurch tomorrow night.
Playing for Kiwis coach Michael Maguire at Wests Tigers, Marshall's NRL form earned him his first Test appearance since 2012 back in June, going on to captain the side in the current international window.
Marshall said thought's of his late grandfather and his son in the stands came to him in the emotional moment.
With tomorrow night potentially looming as Marshall's final appearance in a Kiwis jersey, the 34-year-old looked back on a year that saw him play for his country once again.
"It's just an honour for me," Marshall told media today.
"Not only to wear the black jumper again, but to be captain is something special. Not just for me, but for my family, as well.
Last night saw Marshall play for his country for the first time since son Fox was born last year.
"A lot of people are by you throughout your whole journey. To see what it means to my family is pretty special.
"[I'm] pinching myself that I'm still here. [I'm] just loving it."
Marshall was also asked about his intentions for 2020, whether or not he intends to carry on with his Test career.
"I don't know. I'm just playing this one like it's my last, like I've done [for] all of them, I suppose.
"This week's not about me, whether it's my last or not, it's about what's best for the jumper.
The Kiwis halfback wants to play Test football for as long as possible.
"We've been focusing on the country as a whole, and putting this jumper in a better place."
The Kiwis face Great Britain in Christchurch tomorrow night.
SHARE ME