Brace for brutality, Dugan tells Tedesco

Josh Dugan has warned James Tedesco to expect a brutal initiation to State of Origin from Queensland.

Tedesco debuts in the Blues No.1 jersey in next week’s Origin III in a spot Dugan made his own for NSW last year and earned player of the series honours.

Wests Tigers star Tedesco’s stunning NRL form has won him the Blues fullback spot for the game three over Matt Moylan and Dugan predicted Queensland will seek to test him at every opportunity.

“I think my first Origin they threw up 20 bombs. it could be one of those Origin games but it could be one where he shines,” Dugan said.

“I think he is the sort of player who shines in the tougher games.

“You just have to look at his form over the year and he has proven why he deserves the spot

“He is a dangerous player, he is someone who can turn nothing into something. I am really looking forward to going out there with him.

“He is a confident player and his form at club level is great.”

Despite his own good form at fullback for St George Illawarra, Dugan will play centre for the Blues in game three.

“I have proved what I can do at this level, I am confident in my ability where ever I play,” Dugan said.

“I have shown I can play centre and fullback so where ever I have been picked I feel I can put my best foot forward there.”

Due to an elbow injury it is the first Origin game Dugan will play this season and he is desperate not to see Queensland win the series 3-0.

“We don’t want to get swept, that’s probably the worst thing that can happen to you in Origin,” he said.

“It is an Origin game not a dead rubber and it will be every bit as tough as game one and two.”

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