Titans fullback Jarryd Hayne and powerhouse prop Ryan James have been included in Gold Coast's 19-man squad for the 2017 Downer NRL Auckland Nines tournament.
While Hayne's involvement in the two-day event had been previously announced, the inclusion of James – along with playmakers Tyrone Roberts and the returning Kane Elgey – has signalled coach Neil Henry's intent.
After falling to the Warriors in the semi-finals of last year's tournament, the Titans look poised to have another serious tilt at the prize on offer at Eden Park, with Chris McQueen, Anthony Don and new recruit Daniel Vidot also all named.
The Titans feature in Waiheke pool alongside the Bulldogs, Panthers and Sharks.
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Titans 2017 Auckland Nines squad:
Morgan Boyle, Alexander Brimson, Tyler Cornish, Anthony Don, Kane Elgey, Jarryd Hayne, Ryan James, Max King, Chris McQueen, John Olive, Nathaniel Peteru, Pat Politoni, Leivaha Pulu, Tyrone Roberts, Tyronne Roberts-Davis, Hayden Schwass, Paterika Vaivai, Daniel Vidot, William Zillman.
