New South Wales will attempt to claim back-to-back State of Origin series victories when they tackle Queensland on home soil in Game III.
The Blues were unable to put the Maroons to the sword in Perth and will now head into a decider knowing they must win.
Laurie Daley has elected to stay loyal to his troops who couldn’t quite get the job done in Game II, although he has mixed things around when it comes to picking his 18th man.
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Matt Burton has been the perennial reserve figure on the bench for the Blues in recent years due to his ability to cover multiple positions.
However, Daley has chosen his Canterbury teammate Jacob Kiraz to fulfil the duties instead in Sydney.
"I didn’t actually think I was going to be 18th, to be honest," Kiraz said while stationed in camp.
"I thought Laurie was just ringing to put me in the reserves or to say come up and train like I did the other week.
"When he told me, my heart probably did sink a little bit. I was excited to tell my family straight away.
"Laurie just told me to stay ready, so that’s what I’m here to do," Kiraz added. "It’s pretty surreal at the moment but I’ll just soak it all in."
Kiraz was called into the NSW camp ahead of Game II as Brian To’o was hampered by a troublesome hamstring complaint.
The Penrith star barely featured in training yet produced a stellar display for his state in WA as he grabbed a hat-trick in a losing side.
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To’o picked up another issue while back in clubland though as he battled through a knee injury during his side’s 8-6 victory over the Bulldogs in Round 17.
The Panthers flyer has been selected on the wing for the Blues in the decider but Daley admitted that he would be closely monitored ahead of the match.
This has opened the door for Kiraz to potentially make his NSW debut if To’o is ruled out.
And the Dogs favourite has declared he will be ready to grasp the opportunity with both hands, even if it means kissing goodbye to a treasured family tradition.
"Every time there is a big BBQ at my house with my family to watch Origin," Kiraz smiled.
"So, now they said there will be no BBQ because they’ll come to the game."
"As 18th, I’m preparing to play because you never know what could happen," Kiraz added.
"I’m sure Bizza will be fine. Bizza is an animal. He’s someone who I look up to really highly. I feel like he’ll be alright. But if not and the worst case comes and Bizza is ruled out, I’ll be ready."