Queensland Origin legend and League Nation Live panellist Justin Hodges says there’s no secret who the Maroons will be targeting in Wednesday night’s State of Origin opener in Sydney, with new Blues half-back Adam Reynolds firmly in the firing line.
Hodges speaking on NITV’s League Nation Live, said the Rabbitohs half will come in for some special attention. 
“You have to. It’s his first game, there’s no secret there.
South Sydney halfback Adam Reynolds. (AAP) Source: AAP
“He’s going to cop a lot of pressure and he’s coming up against some great forwards who have been there a long, long time, so it’s all about getting up on him early, shutting him down, taking away that kick and put some pressure on him,” said Hodges.
Reynolds will make his State of Origin debut after New South Wales coach Laurie Daley decided not to select long term incumbent Mitchell Pearce.
The New South Wales halfback job comes with a weight of pressure and expectation, something Hodges says Queensland will use to their advantage.
“It’s a big game, a big moment and if you get a few up on him early he might make a few mistakes and take him out of the game.
Queensland players celebrate during game three of the State of Origin series between the Maroons and the New South Wales Blues at Suncorp Stadium. Source: Getty Images
Former NSW Origin winger Ricky Walford agreed that Reynolds would be tested by the Queensland pack, but Walford thinks it’s a test Reynolds will more than pass.
“He’s been playing really well (Reynolds), he’s played in a Grand Final and won a Grand Final.
“He just has to talk to the forwards, get them to do what you need them to do and then capitalise on that,” said Walford.
