Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Cameron Munster Maroons leadership will be under the spotlight on Wednesday night as Queensland face New South Wales in a State of Origin series decider in Brisbane.
The 31-year-old has the chance to captain Queensland to a home decider victory, while also paying respect to the Maroons greats who shaped his Origin career.
The build-up comes during a busy rugby league period, with Api Koroisau’s injury deepening the Wests Tigers’ finals worries.
Munster Inspired By Queensland Greats
Munster said he still feels a strong debt to Johnathan Thurston, Cooper Cronk, Cameron Smith and Billy Slater, who were ending their Origin careers as he was starting his own.
"We've had some really good players come through and really bleed for the jersey," Munster said.
"Smithy, Coops [Cronk], Billy and JT [Thurston]. They've been great for the game, pouring their blood out for the Maroon jersey.
"They instilled the belief and confidence in us that we can go out there and be like them.
"I was definitely very lucky that when I got my chance on debut in Brisbane [in 2017], I had JT looking after me in camp. They put that belief in you.
"When you have guys like that and Bill in the coaching staff telling you how good you can be and how good we are if we get it all right, it just makes you want to run through a brick wall."
Brisbane Decider Carries Extra Weight
Munster has won four of the five State of Origin series he has played since 2020.
He missed the 2024 series through injury, when New South Wales claimed the shield.
The Queensland captain has yet to lead the Maroons to victory in a Brisbane decider, making Wednesday night a major personal test.
"I don't think you can get a better thrill," Munster said.
"It will probably top everything, to be fair.
"To have the 'C' next to my name for the first time at home, especially in a decider … it's something you dream about as a kid.
"I've had a great record in [Origin deciders], but that doesn't mean it's going to get us over the line."
Official match and series updates are available through the NRL.
