Hodgson makes pack move

Josh Hodgson has started to move from hooker to loose forward during NRL games as Ricky Stuart looks to get even more out of his English star.

Hodgson has been in dynamic form for Canberra this year and is one of the front-runners for the coveted Dally M award.

The former Hull KR man is starting matches for the Raiders in the number 9 role but when back-up hooker Kurt Baptiste comes off the bench, Hodgson is shifting to lock to exploit his playmaking skills.

Stuart wants to add a new dimension to the Green Machine’s attack and keep Hodgson out on the field longer.

It’s a ploy Hodgson used to carry out when in Super League at the Robins with Lincoln Withers.

“It’s been a part of our plan. It’s a combination that works very well for our attack,” Stuart told The Canberra Times.

“Josh has done that before in England and Josh’s ability as a utility player fitting in at half, lock, nine has been very constructive for the team.

“He’s a wonderful player. He gives us a different point of attack when he does play in a lock or half position with Kurt on the field.”