Manly lost Grand Finals in 82, 83, 95, 97 and 2007. (There were quite a few lost in the 60s but I am presuming they were before Doug's time)
It is a big call to be termed 'one of the best players never to represent my country'. Kevin Hastings used to have that tag but he didn't play in a winning GF against Manly.
Some might consider Robbie O'Davis or Darren Albert to fit that bill, or even Matthew Johns but I couldn't agree. Jim Dymock did play for Australia though I am not sure about Jason Smith.
Tough one - any more hints???