The 30-year-old will get his first Origin cap in the series decider – and coach Michael Maguire knows the extent of his sacrifice.
NSW debutant Mitchell Barnett said he felt an “obligation” to make the most of his call-up to Michael Maguire’s squad, missing the birth of his second child to stay back and help the Blues earlier in the State of Origin series.
Maguire was aware of the sacrifice Barnett made to be with the Blues for the opening game. After staying with the team, his flight back to Auckland didn’t land in time to see partner Clare give birth. “That’s our group we’ve got here,” Barnett said. “All the boys sacrifice things and the fans probably don’t see what NRL players do on a daily basis in terms of sacrifice. They move away from family. It’s a short career, so you’ve got to make the most of it.”The 30-year-old might have been forgiven for thinking his Origin opportunity had passed, but he’s been in outstanding form for a struggling Warriors side this season.
“I’ve got so many good mates there I played with, and schoolmates, it was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever made. But I’m so glad I did. I’m here today because of it.“I’ve got a good group of boys around me at the Warriors and a coach that believes in me. A lot of things have changed, and I know I was injured last year, but this year I’ve had a bit of luck with injury, touch wood. Things have fallen into place for me.
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