Ethan Strange produced one of the greatest debuts in State of Origin history, but the NSW playmaker has no issues if he loses the No.6 jersey for game two.
While Nathan Cleary was a worthy recipient of the man-of-the-match award for his second-half heroics, halves partner Strange was also a standout in the Blues’ 22-20 win over Queensland at Accor Stadium on Wednesday night. Strange’s place in the starting side was only confirmed the day before the match after Mitchell Moses was scratched due to a hamstring strain.
Playing in the No.18 jersey, Strange had 15 runs for 134 metres, as well as 22 tackles, including a try-saver that kept the Blues in the contest.
However, his most magical moment was finishing off a Stephen Crichton break in the final quarter, a try that sparked the biggest comeback in Origin history.
“It was awesome,” Strange said. “I followed ‘Critter’ [Crichton], he somehow turned around and found me.
“It was pretty special.”
Strange was named as one of six debutants, but came into camp unsure if he would get any game time after being named on a six-man bench. However, Moses’ injury resulted in him starting in his preferred pivot position and he didn’t waste the opportunity.
“To be honest it was all a blur,” he said.
“I’d have to look back on the game. You just try hard and do your best.”
Having announced himself on the biggest stage, Strange has given coach Laurie Daley a welcome headache. Moses is expected to return for Parramatta as soon as next week, leaving the coach with a tough decision about who should partner Cleary in the Melbourne encounter.
Strange had no qualms about the prospect of being dropped back to the bench if it meant another opportunity with the squad.
“Moey is a legend and he’s done it all at this level,” Strange said. “It doesn’t matter to me. Moey is such a good player.”
Asked about the prospect of giving up the No.6 jersey after his starring role, the 21-year-old replied: “I’m not thinking about that now.”
Cleary was full of praise after Strange stepped up at late notice.
“He’s an absolute freak, I was so happy to take the field with him,” Cleary said.
“For him to come in off essentially a day’s notice and play the way he did, it was incredible.
“He’s a legend of a bloke and a fantastic footy player.”
Asked about who would likely partner him in the halves for game two, Cleary said: “It was a shame to lose Moey, but Ethan did a fantastic job. We’ll see what happens.”
Daley hinted that Moses could be back in the No.6 jersey if he makes a successful comeback before game two on June 17.
“Mitch is a big part of our team,” Daley said.
“It’s not a bad hammy either, so we expect him to play. If he plays, he’ll be a part of the squad, for sure.”
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