By Steve Ricketts
January 28, 2010

Ben Lowe is in the frame for the Queensland State of Origin pack, but has he got what it takes to make South Sydney's line-up?

That's the challenge the Toowoomba product faces as he shapes up for his third season with the Rabbitohs and looks for a new deal at the club.

With the Rabbitohs having signed England international Sam Burgess, Brisbane Broncos youngster Dave Taylor and former Queensland prop Ben Ross there is a log jam of forward talent, although Ross still has to get a final medical clearance following neck surgery.

Captain Roy Asotasi, Maroons Origin forward Mick Crocker, fellow Queenslander David Tyrrell, veteran Luke Stuart and youngsters Eddy Pettybourne, Jason Clark and Lowe are all in contention for pack spots.

Asotasi compared the pack to the 2004 Bulldogs premiership-winning set of which he was a part of, saying the Rabbitohs could provide the same intimidation factor.

"We're hoping to inflict some pain from the kick-off of each game," he said.

Lowe, 24, played 16 NRL matches last year and displayed qualities required at Origin level, hence his recent selection in the Queensland Academy of Sport Emerging Squad.

"Some people might regard Ben's selection as a surprise," Academy head coach Wayne Bennett said. "But he has a good attitude and works really hard. They're qualities we value."

Lowe played with North Queensland Cowboys before linking with older brother Jaiman at Souths in 2008.

Jaiman, 27, is in the Cowboys system now that he has signed with Cairns-based Northern Pride.

"I had four years at the Cowboys, but always seemed to be 18th man," Ben said.

Souths' first trial is against Manly at Redfern Oval on February 7 followed by a hit-out against Gold Coast Titans at Coffs Harbour on February 20.

The annual Charity Shield match against St George Illawarra at Sydney's ANZ Stadium follows on February 27.