Queensland lock Corey Parker admits injured forward Sam Thaiday will be missed when the Maroons launch their quest to win an unprecedented ninth straight State of Origin series wins.
Sydney Roosters forward Aidan Guerra is set to make his Origin debut off the bench for Queensland in the May 28 series opener in Brisbane after Thaiday’s brave decision to rule himself out of contention with a calf injury.
Maroons chairman of selectors Des Morris had said the importance of Thaiday – a 20 Origin veteran – could not be underestimated during their eight series wins.
And while he had every confidence in Guerra, Parker agreed Thaiday’s ability to alternate from the second row to prop at Origin level had been a key to their success.
“He has been a very important part of this side for years,” Parker said.
“But when you get an opportunity to wear the Queensland jersey, you don’t want to let it down.
“I am sure the guys filling in will certainly do that.”
Parker said the loyalty shown by Queensland selectors would keep the team in good stead against another new-look NSW side boasting more changes.
South Sydney’s Chris McQueen, Canberra’s Josh Papalii and Newcastle’s Darius Boyd all kept their spots despite indifferent NRL form.
“Queensland have stuck to the guys who have done the job – and rightly so,” Parker said.
“There has been just one change, albeit a forced one, but Aidan deserves his chance.
“The advantage for Aidan is that he has gone through the Emerging Origin program which is very similar to this and is designed to be that way.”
Queensland players were surprised there was a risk of empty seats at the series opener which will mark Origin game No.100.
Queensland will also retire the No.11 jersey for the match in honour of the late Arthur Beetson.
A hike in prices this year has ensured there are almost 8000 general tickets still unsold for next week’s opener.
“I am quite surprised it hasn’t sold out. Usually, they are sold out like that in Brisbane,” Maroons skipper Cameron Smith said.
“I would like to think, come kick-off, there won’t be an empty seat.
“You’d want to come along to this one because it is a big occasion.”
But Parker added: “It will be a full house, mate – no question Suncorp Stadium will be full.”