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Who is the best player in the game? It’s a question often asked by commentators and rugby league fans alike.
In most discussions, the answer offers up the usual list of suspects. Cameron Smith, Johnathan Thurston, Billy Slater, maybe Greg Inglis on his day. These players are worthy of such a title, and have earned the right to be considered the best for the last five years or more.
But who is the best today? Who is the best player running around right now, this season?
I feel the answer is clear-cut. Cooper Cronk is currently the best player in rugby league.
In a champion team, who are rightfully lauded each week for their performances, Cronk is their best or close second every week.
You need only look at his list of man of the match awards dating back to the 2012 grand final.
Slater has played well this season and always makes an impact. His game against the Broncos was particularly good and his best of the year.
However, he is often capitalising on the pinpoint accuracy of Cronk’s attacking kicks and skilful passes.
Smith is a model of consistency and an unrivalled leader – nevertheless the defining plays that have won Melbourne the pressure games this year have not come from their fearless leader, but rather from their little general.
When Melbourne has most needed someone to stand up and win the game for them, Cronk has so far produced every time.
If the greatest players are measured by their consistency, their ability to produce brilliance not once or twice, but every game – then no player has come close to Cronk this year.
Thurston is trying is backside off every week for the Cowboys, but aside from his undoubted competitiveness, his attacking kicking game is off slightly and his try assists are down. I’m being a tough judge on Thurston, as nearly any other player would be happy to be playing at his level, but he has set the bar very high over the past few years.
Inglis has terrorised teams at times this season, but Saturday’s game was the perfect example of Cronk pipping his good mate for best on ground. While Inglis can be kept quiet for periods, Cronk is relentless and always in the game.
From the outside, it appears his discipline and commitment to the improvement of his game is extraordinary. He has perfected his kicking game to such a level that it is as good a weapon as any.
Long kicks, shorts kicks, 40/20s – he lays them out on a platter every week. His organisational play and ability to score a try through support play, just shows the heart and mental toughness to go the extra mile when others can’t.
I’m yet to see him let anyone down in defence either.
He should be NSW’s most feared and targeted player come Origin time. If he continues to play at this level throughout the season, it will be very difficult to stop Melbourne reaching another grand final.
While many probably wouldn’t like to see that happen again, I’m sure they can agree that it’s a pleasure to watch someone at the top of their game, play so masterfully.
Right now, I don’t think there is anyone better.
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