Kiwi league star Benji Marshall hopes to keep playing until 2018 - but hasn't ruled out having a second crack at rugby.

Formerly from Whakatane, Benji's deal with the St George Illawarra Dragons expires at the end of next season.

Benji Marshall. Photo: You Tube.

He'd like to stick with the NRL but "is open" to a shift to Britain's Super League or the lucrative Japanese rugby scene.

Benji turns 31, in February and is in rejuvenated form after his unsuccessful bid to crack the Super Rugby scene with the Blues last year.

He starred for the Dragons this year, ultimately finishing third in the Dally M voting.

The Dragons will monitor his form next year before deciding if the veteran playmaker is worth further investment.

Benji's manager Martin Tauber made it clear he was in no hurry to tie down a new deal and there were options, including Japanese rugby.

"We've talked about another two years after 2016," martin told foxsports.com.au when discussing Benji's future.

"He might change his mind and want to do one year or go to England or Japan.

"In fairness we'd certainly go to the Dragons first and give them the opportunity to take him on if they wished.

"We'll consider all of those opportunities during that time-frame."

In 2013, Benji ended 10 seasons with the Wests Tigers, including helping them to the 2005 title, to try his hand at rugby with the Blues.

Caught between playing at fullback and trying to be their answer at No 10, Benji cut short his two-year deal at the Blues after just seven appearances to return to the NRL with the Dragons.

The less demanding Japanese rugby scene could provide an easier environment for Benji to display his clever footwork and distribution skills.

Despite his impressive form for the Dragons, former Kiwis captain Benji has been unable to find favour with New Zealand league coach Steve Kearney and remains on the outer in international rugby league.

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