Overawed when thrown into the State of Origin deep end last year, recalled NSW prop Trent Merrin is burning to prove he belongs.
One of the NRL’s most consistent front-rowers, Merrin knows he has to do a better job of transferring his club form to Origin.
He failed badly last year, with nerves and a powerful Queensland pack helping contribute to meek performances in the first two games of last year’s series.
While he was strong defensively, Merrin offered little impact with the ball – five runs for 28 metres in game one followed by three runs for 18 metres in game two.
“You can say inexperience hit me a bit,” Merrin said.
“I’ve matured a lot more now. I know what to expect (and) to concentrate on my own game.
“I’m still going to be nervous, but I’ve got little targets to get myself into the game.”
Merrin has returned a much better player for St George Illawarra in 2012, filling the same role he will for NSW in coming off the bench to provide go-forward after the initial exchanges.
He has more runs (168), more metres (1407) and is second in tackles made (307) to Canterbury’s James Graham for players coming off the bench in the NRL in 2012.
Merrin admits his axing for last year’s decider had provided an inspiration for his resurgence this campaign.
“I think it was a blessing in disguise,” Merrin said of being dumped.
“It hurt a bit and lit a fire for me at the start of this year.
“That taste I had for Origin – I wanted it again.
“It’s a big test for myself and I love testing myself. I’m happy Ricky and the team’s given me a chance again.”