As Darren Lockyer took a step into history at today’s 2008 representative season launch, Kangaroos coach Ricky Stuart challenged his players to produce the performance of the century when Australia take on the Kiwis in the Bundaberg Rum Centenary Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on May 9.

The sight of Lockyer in the Maroon and Blue hooped replica of the original 1908 Kangaroos jersey and the Kiwis’ Roy Asotasi in New Zealand’s heritage jumper underlined the significance of a match to be  played 100 years to the day since the first ever trans-Tasman Rugby League Test.

Stuart declared it was a chance for players to write their names on a unique page of Rugby League history and said he wanted men who were prepared to treat the game as a special challenge.

“If I were still playing I would consider it an honour and a privilege to be selected for this match… it’s certainly an honour to be coaching the side,” Stuart said.

“To run out on such an historic ground in the Kangaroos’ original colours is something that won’t be lost to my players. When I took over as coach I said I was only interested in men who would take genuine pride in wearing the Australian jersey and over the last two seasons we’ve seen the players really respond to that.

“I’ve been really proud of what they’ve achieved in my time as Australian coach and somehow the significance of this match raises the stakes a little further.

“We will be looking to put in a performance that will do ourselves proud, our predecessors proud and one which will provide the best possible launching pad to the World Cup.”

The Kiwis will take to the SCG for the first time under new coach Stephen Kearney, who will be desperate to avenge the Kiwis’ devastating loss to Australia last year.

Kearney said the Centenary Test offered the Kiwis their last real opportunity to test themselves before the World Cup kicks off in October.

“I’m sure the players will be keen to make amends for the match against Australia in particular,” Kearney said.

“There’s no doubt we need to improve on our recent performances and I’m confident we will. The Centenary Test is obviously a huge occasion for both sides and I’m looking forward to seeing where we’re at.”