New South Wales State of Origin coach Laurie Daley has finalised the makeup of his side ahead of Game III on Wednesday evening, naming Jack Bird at Five-Eighth.
Much debate has surrounded the makeup of the Blues halves, with both Bird and Matt Moylan in the mix following an injury to incumbent half Adam Reynolds.
Bird made his Origin debut off the interchange bench in Origin II, but Daley has no qualms going with the Cronulla Sharks livewire from kick-off this time around.
“Birdy is a kid who is very confident in his own ability and I still don’t know what his best position is.
Blues coach Laurie Daley says Jack Bird will start at five-eighth for NSW in State of Origin III. (AAP) Source: AAP
“It is good to see that he got his opportunity and it was good to see he handled it well and I’m sure he’ll handle it well tomorrow night,” said Daley.
Daley and his New South Wales side are desperate for victory having lost the opening two matches of the series.
There’s also added incentive for the Blues, with inspiration captain Paul Gallen playing his final Origin, with Daley and his players wanting to send their skipper out with victory. .
Paul Gallen's final NSW game represents the end of a State of Origin era. (AAP) Source: AAP
“We want to show NSW supporters that we are a pretty good footy team.
“We are playing for them and we are playing for Gal as well. He has been a warrior for us through some pretty good times and it is important that we play well for him” said Daley.
