Oldfield to make debut for fifth NRL club

After five NRL clubs, a stint in the Super League and a couple of internationals for Tonga, it’s hard to believe Canberra recruit Michael Oldfield is only 26.

The journeyman outside back will make his Raiders debut in Saturday’s clash with South Sydney, with a suspension to star winger Jordan Rapana thrusting him into first grade earlier than expected.

“Rapa’s unfortunate there with his suspension,” Oldfield said.

“What’s unfortunate for him was an opportunity for me.

“It’s come sooner than I expected but I’m pretty excited to get a run.”

Sunday will be the first time this season Raiders will be without Rapana, whose combination with centre Joey Leilua is their most dangerous attacking threat.

“It’s big shoes to fill with Rapa. I’m just going to go out there and play my game and hopefully our combination will be fine with BJ (Leilua),” Oldfield said.

“BJ’s one of those players where you expect anything.”

Oldfield started his career in 2010 with Manly and played one game with the Sydney Roosters in 2013 before a two-year stint with Catalans Dragons.

After three games with South Sydney last year, he managed just the one match at Penrith earlier in the season before opportunities dried up and Canberra coach Ricky Stuart came knocking.

“At Penrith they had a lot of depth and they had players that could play anywhere,” Oldfield said.

“I knew I’d get a better shot here. Sticky’s been pretty honest about that and it’s come through.”

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