BY RICHARD HOGAN

Parramatta Eels forward and Auckland-native Kenny Edwards is desperate to get out onto the field at the Auckland Nines after four months of grueling pre-season.

Edwards watched Parramatta claim their maiden Nines title from the sidelines last year before they were stripped of the crown because of salary cap breaches.

“I didn’t get to come to the Nines last year, but obviously the boys won and got up and I was a bit jealous I couldn’t be a part of it,” Edwards told the Eels website.

“We have brought a fairly strong side over so hopefully we can go deep into the tournament again this year.

“As everyone knows, we slog away for four months so it’s good to get back on the field. The Nines is an awesome tournament and a great concept.”

With tongue firmly in cheek, Edwards believes the Eels are set to unleash another try scoring weapon this weekend.

“It’s a tough one, obviously Bevan (French) got it last year, Semi (Radradra) had it a couple of years before him. So it will be tough, and I think those two will come close, but I think ‘Piggy’ has put his hand up too and he thinks he will score a few tries!” Edwards quipped.

“Piggy Riddell aka Nathan Brown can hopefully get over the line and score a few!”

The Eels begin their tilt against St George Illawarra at 10.50am Sydney time.