“He brings a lot of speed,beats people one on one,is elusive,and he anticipates things happening rather than reacting.

“I think the changes this week will be a breath of fresh air,it will be a different Rabbitohs side,and Jye will be a part of that. I’m really excited for him,and look forward to seeing where his career goes.”

Shayne was among the giant entourage when Gray made his senior Souths debut in the Charity Shield,and expected close to 100 friends and family and former coaches,in rugby league and touch football,to be at Accor Stadium for the Sharks clash.

Shayne sheepishly admitted he had grown up a Cronulla fan,but was happy to make an exception around 7.30pm.

“This is his dream,and it’s wonderful to see his dream come to fruition – we’re extremely proud,” Shayne said.

“We’re extremely proud. There were tears this morning. There have been a few tears this week. The emotions will run high on Saturday night as well. Jye has speed on his side. He’s got a big heart,that’s all that matters.”

Souths legend and assistant coach John Sutton has singled out Gray on more than one occasion in the past,and told this masthead in February:“He’s a little goer who doesn’t take a backward step who will kick on,for sure.”

Gray is viewed as Cody Walker’s eventual No. 6 successor,and depending on what happens in the next month,could even keep the fullback spot,which would allow Mitchell to return from a three-match ban via the centres.

Tyrone Munro returns on the left wing,while Peter Mamouzelos starts his first game this year at dummy-half.

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