Maroons continue Origin 3 mind games, refuse to reveal line-up for decider

Mystery still surrounds Queensland’s line-up after assistant Justin Hodges refused to confirm their starting side for Wednesday night’s State of Origin series decider in Sydney.

But Hodges did reveal the Maroons were confident of avenging their 38-6 game two loss, pointing to their superior record in deciders.

Hodges claimed just hours before kick-off that he had no idea what line-up would run out at ANZ Stadium after the loss of veteran back-rower Matt Gillett with a groin strain.

Teenager David Fifita has been tipped to be promoted to the starting back row with interchange utility Moses Mbye swapping with centre Michael Morgan and Ethan Lowe to make his debut off the bench.

More Origin 3
» Origin kick-off bingo: When will Game 3 actually start?
» Origin expert tips
» The ultimate State of Origin stats preview
» NSW Blues vs Queensland Maroons prediction

But Hodges said Queensland coach Kevin Walters would make NSW wait until just before kick-off before revealing his side.

“I don’t know. I really don’t,” Hodges said of the starting team.

“Kevvie hasn’t made that decision yet. We will just have to wait until before kick-off.”

There had been speculation that Lowe may even start.

Hodges again didn’t give anything away but said the South Sydney back-rower would be up to the task.

“He’s been a fantastic player. He’s played in big games, been in grand finals (for North Queensland),” he said.

“Wherever Kevvie decides to use him he will go out and do his job.”

Hodges admitted the Maroons were hurting from the rout in Perth but kept up the mind games when he pointed out Queensland’s record in Origin deciders.

The Maroons have won 13 deciders compared to NSW’s four, including the past seven.

And they have claimed the past two deciders in Sydney – in 2008 and 2013.

“Over the last 10 to 14 years our record has been better down here,” Hodges said.

“Our game three deciders have always been better than NSW, so we are very confident to come down here to win this game.”

Hodges said the Origin II result – Queensland’s second worst loss – had ensured the Maroons were up for the challenge.

“In game two we got what we deserved. We didn’t turn up with the right attitude,” he said.

“Our boys are now primed and ready to go. If you can’t get up for a decider then you are probably in the wrong game.

“Our boys are ready, they are confident. We are here to do a job and we will do it.”