Hutchison will be sidelined for more than six months leaving the door ajar for 29-year-old McCrone to edge his way back to the top flight after leading the Dragons' reserve grade side to a grand final win.

And with 140 NRL games under his belt, he may be the man coach Paul McGregor looks to install in the halves.

"I thought I had been training very well and posed as good competition for Drew before he went down," McCrone said.

"There is a lot of extra motivation for me now to stand up.

"I am the most experienced bloke left to do the job so there is a sense of responsibility.

"I haven't known Drew for too long but this has been the best shape that he has been in.

"Unfortunately, one door closes for him but another one opens for me and for anyone else who can put their hand up to play in the halves.”