Bellamy sees more pain ahead of Blues

Coming from the coach who knows them best, Craig Bellamy doesn’t think the Queensland’s era of Origin success led by Storm duo Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk will be over any time soon.

Although a proud New South Welshman who was on the receiving end of Queensland’s dominance as NSW Origin coach between 2008 and 2010, Bellamy said he was proud of what Smith and Cronk had achieved.

“It’s quite amazing what he’s done and what Cooper’s done and it’s just as amazing what Queensland has done,” the Melbourne mentor said.

“It’s been a wonderful era for Queensland and while I”m not a Queenslander you still have to admire what they have done and it doesn’t look like anyone is going to slow down any time soon.

“I’m really proud of the way they have gone and represented our club, the way they have represented themselves and their families.”

Still troubled by a persistent ankle complaint, Cronk was quiet by his own lofty standards as Queensland wrapped up the series at Suncorp to claim their 10th title in 11 years.

But Bellamy said both Cronk, aged 32, and Smith, a year older, showed they still had plenty to offer.

Cronk is poised to sign a new deal with the Storm while Smith is locked in until the end of 2018 season and Bellamy believed they had more Origin wins ahead.

All those older players seem to keep going, everyone thought they would start to fade in their form but they havent,” Bellamy said.

Our two blokes have played as good as they ever have in this series then you have (Corey) Parker, (Johnathan) Thurston, (Sam) Thaiday, Nate Myles and then GI (Greg Inglis) was unbelievable too – Im not sure when they will slow down.”

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!