Parker not interested in Klemmer battle

Queensland backrower Corey Parker says he is not interested in “another round” with NSW young gun David Klemmer in Wednesday night’s State of Origin decider in Brisbane.

Parker demanded Klemmer “show some respect” in Origin II after the Blues youngster got under the Maroons’ skin in his first two games off the NSW bench.

Klemmer is again expected to come out swinging at Suncorp Stadium as the Blues look to secure a second straight series.

Parker predicted Origin III would have everything but more fireworks aimed at Klemmer.

“He (Klemmer) has been fantastic for NSW but I don’t think I would use the words ‘another round’,” he said of lining up against Klemmer.

“But we all have a job to do and if you focus on one guy you will miss some other fair players in their forward pack.

“There is a lot of pride and passion on the line.

“It will be tough where I am in the middle, it’s an Origin decider – it will have everything I assume.”

Parker did not want to expand on Klemmer but looked forward to old friend and ex-Broncos teammate Michael Ennis’ likely elevation as NSW hooker in game three.

Blues rake Robbie Farah is considered unlikely to play after hand surgery.

Parker, who had to wait six years to resume his Origin career, could relate to Ennis who last played for NSW in 2011.

“It’s funny how football works sometimes, you keep plodding along and hoping at some stage you get another opportunity – this is his,” Parker said.

“If he’s playing that’s great for him.

“He’s been in that arena before. He’s tough. He fits the mould quite well.

“He’s one of those guys you hate to play against.”

Queensland have a day off at their Gold Coast camp on Monday before driving back to Brisbane on Tuesday for their final captain’s run training session.

Parker said the Maroons had relished a rare camp without injury dramas, giving returning halfback Cooper Cronk (knee) the thumbs up for game three.

“This camp has been a bit different with everyone on the paddock which is good – Cooper has trained strongly,” he said.

Parker said veteran centre Justin Hodges had been his “laidback self” ahead of his 24th and final Origin game for Queensland.

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