Why Moses’ Origin encore could eclipse toughest moment
Murray Wenzel |
Mitchell Moses remembers last year’s series clincher in Brisbane as among the toughest games of his career, but expects his State of Origin encore will top it.
The halfback piloted the NSW Blues to a series win at Suncorp Stadium last year, registering 447 kick metres and a game-sealing try before rupturing his biceps.
Fit-again Nathan Cleary is back in the fray, but the Parramatta playmaker has retained his place in the side at the expense of last year’s halves partner Jarome Luai.
Returning Blues centre Latrell Mitchell is also fit and in form, while Queensland will welcome back Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Cameron Munster, a duo sorely missed by the Maroons last year.
“Quality players, really good additions and some of the best in their positions in the comp,” Moses said of the Maroons’ pair ahead of his sixth Origin appearance.
“We have to be on our toes and watch them, whenever they have the ball we’ll be on high alert for them.”
The Blues’ series-deciding win in Brisbane last year was just their third at Suncorp Stadium and first since 2005.
“I remember just how hard the game was, one of the hardest I’ve played in my life, and I expect no different on Wednesday,” Moses said.
“It’s going to be a tough one. Playing up here is really tough, your communication has to be really clear, so if we know what we’re doing there, everything will sort itself out.”
The Blues will enter with prop Payne Haas and centre Stephen Crichton both in doubt with quadriceps injuries.
Haas hasn’t trained fully with the squad yet, and Crichton left Monday’s session early with his upper leg wrapped in ice.
Campbell Graham will be promoted should Crichton be deemed unfit, while Stefano Utoikamanu is on stand-by for Haas.
AAP
