Cherry-Evans not upset by Cronk return

Amidst all the excitement about Cooper Cronk’s return for Queensland spare a thought for Daly Cherry-Evans.

The Manly star made the first start of his State of Origin career in game two against NSW.

Unfortunately for the 25-year-old the dream job didn’t come with a dream result as the Blues snatched a 6-4 win to seal their first series in nine years.

The quicker-than-expected return of Cronk from a broken arm means Cherry-Evans has to go back to being understudy for Wednesday’s series finale in Brisbane.

Cherry-Evans is taking the positives from his brief experience as Queensland’s starting halfback, saying he’ll be better for the run when the opportunity arises once more.

“It was a great learning curve to be able to wear the No.7 for Queensland,” Cherry-Evans told AAP.

“Now I’m happily going back to the bench in what I believe is a great Queensland side. I’m looking forward to the occasion next Wednesday night.”

Cherry-Evans will slot back onto the bench to resume his usual utility role at Origin level.

It’s obviously not his preferred option but one that the Maroons probably lacked during the game two loss.

He also has no fears that he could find himself in a similar situation to game one and thrust into the halfback role should Cronk’s return from injury only last a short period of the match.

“I don’t think Coops would have left any stone unturned in regards to his preparation,” he said.

“I also believe as a halfback you don’t really need to worry about fitness too much. You do do a lot of work in the game but if it was a forward it may have been a different case.”

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