KIWIS hooker Brandon Smith was reduced to tears following his starring role in the Kiwis’ 26-24 victory over the Kangaroos.

The Storm hooker overcame a lack of game time in 2018, to produce a brilliant try scoring performance in his first game for the Kiwis.

Smith finished with two tackle busts, a linebreak, 31 tackles and a try and was seen getting emotional both during the anthem and post match.

Smith was reduced to tears when he hugged family after the game, with his wrist spelling out RAMS, which was a tribute to his boyhood club.

“The RAMS is my life really and I started playing for them when I was three,” Smith explained.

“To look at it on my wrist when I am out there playing, I just try to be an inspiration to the little kids to let them know it is possible.

“I just try to inspire them everyday and that is why I play rugby league really for my family and all the kids that I grew up with.”

Smith was given a chance by Kiwis’ coach Michael Maguire and he more than warranted the faith shown in him, to fill in for the injured Issac Luke.

“New Zealand is where I’m from and that’s my culture and my family,” Smith said.

“I could never not put on the black and white. It means everything to me and to put on a show for my family and friends that’s what dreams are made of, so I’m very grateful.”

Smith is expected to spend one more season behind Cameron Smith at club level, but with performances like this he has a long career as a starter for both club and country ahead of him.

“I still can’t believe it. I think it’s a dream,” Smith said.

“Madge is really pointing us in the right direction. We always knew we had the skill, but Madge has given us the belief that we can do it.

“It’s been an unreal experience and I just can’t wait to play the next game.”