NSW Blues back-rower Hudson Young has brushed off concerns about stopping Queensland’s Sam Walker after a brilliant start to his State of Origin career.
Walker has been in excellent form for the Maroons in his debut series and Young knows a massive portion of the burden rests on his shoulders.
Sam Walker in action for Queensland in game one. NRL Imagery
However, the Blues enforcer isn’t losing any sleep over the assignment ahead of the crucial game three decider at Suncorp Stadium.
“No, he’s probably the last person I think of,” Young said.
“He’s a great player. All their spine players have been playing really well and we’ve got a big job coming game three to shut them down.”
With the tough Raiders star running directly at the opposition halfback, Young is fully aware of his brief from head coach Laurie Daley.
“Yeah 100 per cent that’s my job as a back-rower,” he said.
“He’s the opposite half, and I think it’s more important me getting my game right, playing to my best ability, and helping our state.”
Known for his aggressive, abrasive style on the field, Young has no plans to take a backward step and vowed to ‘stir up’ Walker.
“I try and be calm off the field, but … they’re good players and I like going after blokes and stirring them up – that’s just the way I’ve always played,” he said.
“I think in Origin you can do that a little bit more than the NRL. That’s the way the game’s built on, and that’s the way I’ll play it.”