Pangai Jr ready to embrace the hate
NSW firebrand Tevita Pangai Jr believes he is “not really liked” by the public as Blues teammates call on their debutant teammate to be unleashed against the Maroons on Wednesday night.
Pangai Jr shapes as the most intriguing storyline heading into the Origin opener. At his best he is among the most damaging forwards in the game but he has struggled for consistency and controlling his emotions.
The surprise selection is embracing being public enemy no.1 as he prepares for his first taste of the Origin arena.
“I know I am really controversial and not really liked,” Pangai Jr said. “It is what it is. As long as my family love me I don’t really care.
“I speak the truth.”
The blueprint for the Blues is obvious. After being outmuscled by Queensland throughout last year’s series the addition of Pangai Jr and Hudson Young has set the tone for a spicy encounter.
“The team Freddy (Brad Fittler) has picked, it’s a lot of fire,” Pangai Jr said. “His intentions are clear. We will see what we can do on Wednesday.”
Blues teammates want Pangai Jr to bring his trademark aggression. Prop Junior Paulo has a desire for Pangai Jr to be let off the leash.
“You just let him go,” Paulo said. “He is ready for this. He will be looking to set the tone early.
“Tevita is a real enforcer. What a moment for his career. He has been looking forward to being part of this camp and now he gets his opportunity.
“I’m used to being on the other end of the stick and he is head-hunting me. It’s better to do it side-by-side.”
Fellow Blues teammate Liam Martin has experienced both being a teammate of Pangai Jnr and having the Bulldogs big man come after you.
Pangai Jnr had a six game stint at the Panthers as part of their premiership run in 2021.
“Let him loose,” Martin said