Even if Corey Parker misses out on the Broncos captaincy, the backrower reckons he will still receive something just as special from coach Wayne Bennett before their NRL season opener.

Parker still held onto hope that he may be made the new Broncos skipper ahead of the 2015 NRL season, despite reports claiming Justin Hodges would be announced as leader on Friday.

But Parker said being handed Broncos jumper No.300 ahead of next Thursday’s NRL opener by the man who started it all for him 14 years ago would be just as precious to him.

Parker will notch the rare milestone when he runs out onto Suncorp Stadium against defending premiers South Sydney, placing him in sight of legend Darren Lockyer’s 355-game club record.

“I have had time to think about it in the off-season – it will be very special for me and my family,” he said of his landmark.

“It is fitting that Wayne gave me my first jumper in 2001 and he is going to give me my 300th for round one.”

Parker reckoned he had not received an official word on the captaincy despite newspaper reports claiming Hodges had already been given the nod.

Parker shared the captaincy with Hodges in 2014 and would not give up on holding the reins until officially told by Bennett – most likely at Brisbane’s season launch on Friday night.

“I believe Wayne is going to be making an announcement in a couple of days,” he said.

“Wayne being Wayne he will make it when he feels fit.

“From day dot I have expressed my passion for this club, that hasn’t changed.

“If I was given the tap on the shoulder I would be ecstatic.”

Parker reckoned a number of players were worthy of holding the reins.

“Hodgo would have my full support, so would Sam (Thaiday), Ben Hunt, Macca (Andrew McCullough) – all could do an adequate job.”

The 32-year-old Parker – off contract at the end of next year – admitted Lockyer’s record was now a realistic goal.

“But it’s not something I am out to achieve,” he said.

“I would love to keep playing competitive football for as long as the club will have me.

“But when all is said and done and I have hung up the boots if I have surpassed him (Lockyer) than that is great.

“If not he is not a bad bloke to come second to.”