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Queensland penpix ahead of Wednesday night’s opening State of Origin clash with NSW at ANZ Stadium.
Fullback – BILLY SLATER
Age: 24 Origins: 5
Speed to burn and makes plenty of metres in his kick-returns. Has the most line breaks (11) in the NRL and can not only score tries but save them with terrific cover defence.
Wing – BRENT TATE
Age: 26 Origins: 12
The only Queensland back not to have played in the Centenary Test win over New Zealand, Tate has fought hard for his spot in a comeback from a knee reconstruction.
Centre – GREG INGLIS
Age: 21 Origins: 4
An imposing figure in the backline with his size, strength and pace. It’s possible the Storm five-eighth will be involved in the halves for Queensland.
Centre – JUSTIN HODGES
Age: 25 Origins: 8
A shoulder injury has limited his impact and game time but Hodges deserves a spot on reputation alone. His penetration out of dummy-half will be a big help when the forwards are tiring.
Wing – ISRAEL FOLAU
Age: 19 Origins: Debut
One of the few players to represent Australia before his state. The hottest star in the NRL, he’s been compared to Mal Meninga at the peak of his powers.
Five-eighth – KARMICHAEL HUNT
Age: 21 Origins: 4
A controversial selection after in-form Titans half Scott Prince was snubbed. Has never started at No.6 in the NRL. Question marks over whether he can handle the extra defensive load.
Halfback – JOHNATHAN THURSTON
Age: 25 Origins: 9
Arguably the greatest player in the world at present. Has every trick in the book, superb vision, an excellent kicking game and rock-solid defence.
Prop – CARL WEBB
Age: 27 Origins: 11
Had a slow start to the year but perhaps stung by former Test forward Greg Dowling’s criticism, Webb enjoyed a form resurgence en route to an Australian jersey. His aggression will be needed against the fiery NSW props.
Hooker – CAMERON SMITH (capt)
Age: 24 Origins: 13
Mr Dependable. He rarely has a bad game and tops the tackle count in the NRL behind Storm teammate Dallas Johnson. A reliable back-up kicker for Thurston and a respected leader.
Prop – PETERO CIVONICEVA
Age: 32 Origins: 20
The old warrior could be taking part in his last Origin series, although he still retains an aura as one of the best front-rowers in the NRL. His steady influence will be priceless.
Second row – MICHAEL CROCKER
Age: 27 Origins: 7
Has never been involved in a winning series for Queensland, but brings plenty of mongrel and aggression to match the hardheads in the Blues pack.
Second row – SAM THAIDAY
Age: 22 Origins: 3
Unlucky to miss out on the Australian side, he’s enjoying career-best form for the Broncos. Will be desperate to play after missing the 2007 series due to an eye injury.
Lock – DALLAS JOHNSON
Age: 25 Origins: 6
The workhorse of the Maroons pack. He made an Origin record 62 tackles in game II last year. An 80 minute player who’s tough as nails.
Interchange
PJ MARSH
Age: 28 Origins: 3
A shock selection after playing just 63 minutes of football in the past six weeks. Set to play his first Origin game since 2003. Will he be underdone?
BEN HANNANT
Age: 23 Origins: debut
Has stepped up to the plate at the Broncos following the departure of Civoniceva. The big blond suffered a nasty chin cut on Sunday but he’s declared he’ll be ready to rip against the Blues.
NATE MYLES
Age: 22 Origins: 6
Undoubtedly enjoying a purple patch and was a leading contender for a Test spot this year but dipped out. Known as “Mr Origin” after injuries and suspension in the NRL left him with little game time during last year’s series.
JACOB LILLYMAN
Age: 24 Origins: 3
Relieved to get the call-up after missing the past two NRL matches due to suspension, he’ll be keen to repay selectors’ faith in him. He’s yet to taste defeat in an Origin match.
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