'I’ve been prepped for big games': How Tonga - and the Bunnies - set Keaon on course for Origin debut

Last year, there was a widespread debate around Origin, and who got to play it. Not the selections, but rather the eligibility, especially with Pacific Tests that clashed with the second meeting of New South Wales and Queensland.

12 months ago, the choice was easy for Keaon Koloamatangi. The Souths backrower was a million miles from Origin selection and chose to represent Tonga in their clash with New Zealand.

He went on to be Tonga’s best player at the World Cup at the end of the year, featuring as a five eighth and hooker as well as his usual role on an edge, before Mate Ma’a bowed out of the tournament after losing to Samoa at Warrington.

Now, as a new recruit to Brad Fittler’s Blues squad, Koloamatangi’s experience in big games – and there aren’t many bigger than Tonga v Samoa – has stood him in good stead for Origin selection.

On top of that, he boasts a remarkable record of having made at least a Preliminary Final in all three of his NRL seasons to date, something which the man himself thinks makes him perfect for Origin.

“I’ve been prepped for big games,” he said of his experiences at the World Cup.

“I’m used to big games and I want to enjoy the moment and take it for granted. You never know when it’s your last game. I don’t know what to feel. I’ll go out and see the full crowd, I love playing for the fans so I’m super excited.

“The last game of the year every year of my career, the worst I’ve got has been a Prelim Final. I’m going to play like there’s something to win. I’m here, I’m not going to let my team down. That’s not my way. I’ve been pumped for a while.”

It so nearly wasn’t for Keaon. After being front and centre of selection discussions based on his early season form, he injured his his ankle and was ruled out of Game 1.

The backrower fought hard to make it back in time and has been rewarded with a debut in Game 3.

“You don’t want to get injured but it’s what we signed up for,” he said. “That’s footy. Pretty much the only issue with our sport is that you never know when injuries are going to happen.

“I’m a big believer that whatever happens happens for a reason and maybe I was meant to get hurt and wasn’t ready to play. 

“I worked my arse off to get back to where I was, but I didn’t think I was going to be able to play. I wasn’t thinking about Origin, I just wanted to play good for my club. Whatever comes, comes. I just concentrated on playing good for the Rabbitohs.”

He’ll not be alone from the Bunnies, with Cam Murray named to start at lock, Damien Cook retained in the side and Cody Walker brought back after three years away.

“It does make it easier,” said Koloamatangi. “Obviously I’ve played with them over the last couple of years and we know what each other is about, but I’m excited to play with new players.

“They’re top calibre players, the best in the comp, so it’s exciting to learn what everyone is about. I’ll get close to the boys and hopefully get that win.”