Slater the secret weapon to Maroons halves
BILLY Slater has emerged as a key figure in the Maroons’ attack, with half Ben Hunt saying the experienced fullback has been a critical voice helping guide him in the halves.
Hunt completed his second training session with the Maroons yesterday, with his efforts in a refereed opposed session against the Queensland under-18s demonstrating he will be fully fit to take his place against the Blues on Wednesday night.
Slater’s nomination from Hunt proves he is so much more than just a custodian for Queensland.
The 34-year-old will line up in his 30th Origin game on Wednesday and while he has long been known as a key voice in organising the defence, Hunt’s commentary shows Slater’s voice is just as important in attack.
Slater will play a key role in nursing halves Hunt and Cameron Munster through their first full Origin series, with his final act for the Maroons perhaps one of the most vital as the pair prepare to power Queensland’s next era.
“Having Billy there in the middle as well, who’s been there for a long time, he’s taken a lot (of the pressure) off me,” Hunt said after his second full training session with the team yesterday.
Hunt has recovered fully from a corked thigh and said he had been comfortable running the team at training ahead of his run-on debut for the Maroons.
“It’s been pretty easy really.
“Everyone in the team really encourages me to do that, they know it’s my role and they’ve made it easy there for me.”
While Hunt’s was a key voice at training yesterday, Slater remains a calming influence and will play a key role in helping Hunt, in particular, blossom in the Origin arena.
“I’m really excited about this year actually,” Slater said.