Lachlan Ilias had not worn the No.6 at NRL level before this season, but Gold Coast coach Josh Hannay insists he is a natural fit to be a success in the new role.
Ilias has played as a halfback for most of his NRL career but will play five-eighth away against Parramatta on Sunday, his career back on an upward trajectory.
The 25-year-old had a great start to his career, leading South Sydney to the preliminary final in 2022 and playing all 24 matches the following year. But injury hampered him in 2024 and then an unhappy season at St George Illawarra followed.
The Titans signed him on a two-year deal and after starting the season at half due to Jayden Campbell being injured, he has moved to No.6 after AJ Brimson was switched to the centres.
"I understand the interest around what number a player wears on their back, but whether you are a six or seven the role is very much the same," Hannay said.
"Lachie plays how Lachie plays. He is a busy, organising type of half and that is what he is doing despite having the six on his back.
"He gives us a bit of stability out there and allows a bit of freedom for guys like JC (Campbell) and Keano Kini."
The Titans put a lot of faith in Ilias and Hannay said he was glad to have him on the books.
"From day one he has come in and worked really hard," Hannay said.
"He has been embraced by the group through his actions and character and is a cracking young lad, so it is easy to gravitate towards guys like that."
Ilias is not overplaying his hand and Hannay doesn't expect miracles, just so long as he does his role.
"I do believe he complements some of the free-spirited players in our team," he said.
"Lachie just does his job. He is not setting the world on fire but I think he is just doing a nice job for us."
Ilias is a vocal on the field. It is a major asset he learned the value of at South Sydney.
“That's just the player I am. Cody Walker had a big part in that, telling me how to talk," Ilias said.
"I took that to the Dragons and I am helping here as much as I can. I know there are guys that like to run the footy so where I can organise and play my part I will do that.
"Coming here I just wanted to play regular footy. I love to play six and alongside JC, hopefully we get a few more wins."
