Slater returns to full flight
QUEENSLAND fullback Billy Slater is ready to save the Origin series in his 30th match for the Maroons, while prop Dylan Napa took a significant step towards taking his place in the must- win clash with NSW on Sunday.
The duo faced their D- Day yesterday as they tried to prove to Maroons coaching and medical staff that they would be fit for Game Two, in what was a successful training session for the under- siege side.
The most heartwarming image for Queensland fans was Slater at full flight, appearing to not be hampered by his ongoing hamstring injury. And the Melbourne star confirmed he was confident he would be able to see out the week to play on Sunday.
The Maroons missed Slater’s presence in Game One and it was clear yesterday that the vocal No. 1 will bring plenty of composure to the side.
Slater said he did not feel any pressure to deliver, but knew it was do- or- die in what will be his 30th Origin match.
“I’m confident in what I can bring to a team,” he said. “I won’t be bringing anything that I haven’t brought in the past. It’s my natural role to communicate and talk and set up plays.
Napa, meanwhile, trained strongly as he tried to prove his fitness after struggling with an ankle injury. Maroons officials will wait to see how Napa pulls up this morning ahead of another contested training session with the Queensland Residents before making the final call on his availability.