Former New South Wales State of Origin players met with the current Blues squad in Melbourne on Monday ahead of Wednesday night’s decisive third game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The gathering aimed to inspire and motivate the team as they seek to secure the series, currently leading 1-0.

Invited to the NSW camp were ex-players Robbie Kearns, Luke Rooney, and Ryan Hoffman, all based in Melbourne, while former fullback Robbie Ross was unable to attend due to illness. Also present was former coach Roy Masters. The former players shared their experiences and advice, emphasizing the importance of commitment and leaving the field without regrets.

Kearns, who played eight games for NSW, encouraged the team to give their maximum effort throughout the match, saying players must be able to face their teammates at full time with no doubts about their effort. “This is the biggest stage in rugby league,” Kearns said. “If every one of the 19 players gives their absolute all, then no doubt they will come off winners.” He reflected on his own playing career, highlighting the unmatched feeling of winning Origin even though he never reached superstar status.

Hoffman, who appeared in 14 matches for NSW, conveyed a similar message, advising the players to focus on doing their role effectively and embracing the bigger significance of representing their state. He recalled the 2014 series win as a key memory, when players made sacrifices for the collective success of New South Wales. Hoffman also noted strong local support for the Blues, observing that NSW fans outnumbered Queensland supporters at several junior league grounds over the weekend—an unusual development in the rivalry.

The former players’ presence and words were intended to boost morale and foster a sense of unity and purpose as the Blues prepare for what is expected to be an intense and closely contested final match in the series.