GARRY SCHOFIELD is gearing up to watch Wednesday’s State of Origin decider – and marvelling at the strength of the Australian game and their governing body’s ability to keep growing the concept.
The showdown at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane is a 52,500 sell-out, following attendances of 79,186 for News South Wales’ 22-20 win at Sydney’s Accor Stadium and an Origin record 91,671 for Queensland’s 44-24 revenge victory at Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Former Great Britain skipper and League Express columnist Schofield played for both Balmain Tigers and Western Suburbs during a stellar career which took in Hull FC, Leeds, Huddersfield, Doncaster and Bramley.
He remains a keen and close follower of the game Down Under and said: “I remember when Origin was launched (in 1982) and people said it was a gimmick, just an exhibition match. Just look at it now.
“It’s a sensational event, and its continuing development shows just how good the Aussies are at marketing and evolving Rugby League.
“It’s right up there with their greatest sporting occasions, and I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that when Origin is on, huge numbers of Australians are enthralled.”
Schofield, who will be giving his views on the World Cup in League Express this autumn, added: “It’s uncanny how often the games live up to the hype.
“It’s the best versus the best, a key to Kangaroos selection, and the intensity of the matches mean Australia are better prepared for internationals than anyone else.
“I just wish we had something even close to it, and I fear us not having some games along those lines will be shown when the World Cup comes around.”
Schofield counts New South Wales coach Laurie Daley among his friends, but fears his fellow former international halfback has his work cut out if the Blues are to claim the crown back from the Maroons.
He added: “I’m a Blues man, and I have huge respect for Laurie, but he’s not quite getting a tune out of his side and I don’t think Mitchell Moses and Nathan Cleary works as a partnership.
“I think Queensland will be too strong and I’m tipping them by 16.”