It was the old dog last year in Wayne Bennett that got them glory but the Queensland Maroons have gone for young blood, with Paul Green the new coach.
Green, most notable for his lengthy coaching stint with the North Queensland Cowboys that bore a premiership, will serve as the coach for the 2021 series at least.
Green himself played in seven Origin games for Queensland and is humbled and thrilled by the opportunity ahead of him.
“The Maroons family is immersed in history, and I’m both humbled and privileged to be in this position,” Green said.
“I think every kid who grows up loving rugby league dreams of one day pulling on the jersey, and while my playing days are well and truly behind me, to get a chance to contribute in a meaningful way as a coach is something that I’m really excited about.”
With plenty of talent coming through the ranks and established stars, Green looks forward to working alongside all of them.
“I think last year’s series was special for all Queenslanders and supporters,” Green said.
“Some of the young guys who put their hands up during that series … it was great to see them get the win.
“In saying that too, it was good to see players like Daly Cherry-Evans and Josh Papalii embrace their leadership positions. They’ve done a great job for the rest of the playing group.”
Robert Moore, the Managing Director of the Queensland Rugby League, believes that Green is a good fit and the guy they need in the role.
“Paul is a passionate Queenslander who has played the game at the highest level and he has a proven track record as a successful NRL coach,” Moore said.
“We believe he is the right fit for this group of players as we prepare for the upcoming series.”