Smith pushes for Munster at No.6

MAROONS captain Cameron Smith has anointed Storm teammate Cameron Munster as the man to replace Johnathan Thurston.

Queensland had its first training session yesterday afternoon in Brisbane, with coach Kevin Walters running his eye over his five-eighth candidates for next Wednesday’s State of Origin decider.

Walters has to decide whether Munster or the Cowboys’ Michael Morgan will fill the No.6 jersey vacated by the injured Thurston.

But Smith is behind Munster forming an all-Melbourne playmaking combination with Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and himself.

“I’d probably lean towards Munster playing five-eighth given we do play with him every week,” he said.

“If Munster ends up being the six, it probably helps the cohesion of the footy side for this one game and help speed it up given we play together every week.

“Morgs is playing some great footy as well at the moment. We’ve played alongside Michael Morgan now for quite a few years. He’d slip in there pretty easily as well.”

What is certain is Broncos halfback Ben Hunt will make his first Origin appearance from the bench.

Hunt was playing reserve grade last week after being axed by Wayne Bennett but will run out at Suncorp Stadium in the decider.

“It was one of the best calls I’ve ever gotten,” Hunt said of his selection.

“I just remember sitting at home, watching TV and Kevvie started calling. It was about eight o’clock at night. I really wasn’t expecting it.

“I thought if he’s going to call, it would have been a lot earlier in the day than that. It’s one of the best calls I’ve ever gotten on a Sunday, that’s for sure.

“It is most kids’ dreams when they play NRL. The next step to play is Origin.

“I was lucky enough to play for Australia a few years ago but the goal always for me was to play State of Origin. To get the opportunity now, I’m very grateful and excited.

“It’s been a pretty crazy month. With the highs and lows of rugby league, they’ve really kicked in over such a short time.”