Statistics show Parramatta will suffer huge void following retirement of Nathan Hindmarsh The Eels will struggle without retired icon Nathan Hindmarsh. NATHAN Hindmarsh insists he isn't missing rugby league ... but exactly how much of the opposite is true for Parramatta? With the Eels tonight starting life without their iconic back-rower, The Daily Telegraph decided to rummage through the statistics and see exactly how much they'll miss him. And just like that infamous bum crack, it doesn't make for pretty viewing. According to Fox Sports Statistics, the Eels have won only 17 per cent of games without Hindmarsh over the past five years and concede an extra two converted tries in defence. Worryingly, Parramatta also score five fewer points without the retired skipper. So with Warnie, Farnsey, even trucker caps making comebacks recently, has Hindy felt like pulling the socks up, the shorts down and returning to Parramatta Stadium? "To be completely honest with you, no," Hindmarsh said yesterday with a grin. I watched Friday night's game between Souths and the Roosters and didn't miss it one little bit. Obviously since retiring the thought has crossed my mind once or twice. I think that's natural. And while I'm not missing it yet, who knows how difficult it will be watching the boys run out against the Warriors. So he'll be at the ground for the Warriors match then? "Oh, definitely, but in a corporate box," he laughed. I've got a role with the club's major sponsor Pirtek, chat to a few people, talk footy, that sort of thing. But even if I didn't have that gig, I'd still be at the game with my three boys because I see real potential in Parramatta this year. Obviously, it's going to be a hard year for a lot of clubs, that's no secret. But at the Eels we have a lot of players who ... how should I put this ... I'm not just hoping they surprise a few teams this year, I really think they will. Hindmarsh also supported coach Ricky Stuart's decision to share the captaincy duties between superstar Jarryd Hayne and tattooed veteran Reni Maitua.