Kangaroos aces believe Origin will give them Ashes edge
Glenn Moore |
Nathan Cleary and Harry Grant were on opposing sides in this season’s State of Origin series, but they are united in green and gold in London this week and both feel Origin experience could give Australia the edge in the Ashes.
The best-of-three format is a rarity at international level, but familiar to the Blues and Maroons, who lock horns in a trifecta every year.
“It’s very much got an Origin feel to it,” said Queensland hooker Grant.
“We know and understand how to deal with those environments throughout the year and through experience playing Origin. Hopefully we can take a little bit of that into this next three games.”
NSW’s Cleary added: “It’s definitely the same template. It’s quite unusual for an international series but a lot of us Aussie guys are used to it.”
This year’s Origin summed up the topsy-turvy potential of a three-game series. The Blues won 18-6 in May, the Maroons rallied to edge a 26-24 thriller in June, then completed the comeback with a 24-12 success in July.
“A lot can change so it’s important we hit the ground running that first game and play the way we want to and to make sure we’re well prepared,” said Cleary.
What is different is the time scale. Saturday’s match against England at Wembley Stadium kicks off three Tests in 15 days compared to this year’s Origin treble being played across 43 days.
That, believes Cleary, should play to Australia’s advantage because of the Kangaroos’ greater depth.
“The nature of the sport we play, it’s very physical, it’s very tough, very fast. So injuries are quite common,” he said.
“Particularly with the HIA (head injury assessment) these days it’s quite easy to miss the next week. So depth will be very important.
“I think that’s where we’re quite lucky. We’ve got a lot of depth in our squad. It’s been a pleasure to be able to train alongside these guys, build those combinations and build towards playing well.”
One of the players the Penrith captain is getting used to being alongside – instead of facing – is Reece Walsh, who will make his Kangaroos debut at Wembley after lighting up the end of the NRL season.
“He’s made me look silly a few times so I’m very excited to play alongside him, and to try unlock him and allow him to play his best,” said Cleary of the Brisbane fullback.
Walsh concluded the season with a stunning display in the grand final against Grant’s Storm.
There had, said Grant ruefully, been “a little bit” of chat from the Broncos in the squad, “but it’s all good banter”.
“It’s probably a blessing with the rep (representative) window (coming) after not winning the grand final,” Grant added.
“Obviously losing, the first thing you want to do as a player is get back out there and right some wrongs, compete and have fun.”
AAP
