Queensland players have no doubt halfback Sam Walker has another big-game performance in him as the Maroons aim to square the State of Origin series.
The 24-year-old Sydney Roosters star had a stunning Origin debut in game one in the 22-20 loss in Sydney, where his two try assists and four goals from four attempts were crucial in getting the Maroons out to a 20-0 lead.
The pressure on Walker was immense after he replaced injured Maroons playmaker Tom Dearden, player of the series in 2025.
Maroons forward Kurt Capewell said a second strong performance was well within Walker's capabilities.
"The first time's pretty hard too," Capewell said.
"But I think if anyone can, Sammy can. He's playing great at club level, and what he did in game one was pretty amazing.
"I'm keen to see him get out there and back it up."
Walker said last week he had been given a licence to play his natural game and take the game on. He has shown that the so-called "risk" he plays with is worth the reward.
"I think a lot of the great players do, they stick to their guns," Capewell said.
"You've got to be confident, especially in those positions. Just back himself, we're all behind him, and if it doesn't come off, we're there to defend it.
Walker and the rest of the Maroons spine of fullback Kalyn Ponga, five-eighth Cameron Munster and hooker Harry Grant will only be better for the run in game one.
"The more times we get to spend together hopefully the better you get," Grant said.
"Off the back of camp one we understand each other's games a bit better, and fingers crossed we can continue to grow that combo.
"Sammy had a really good game in game one. He prepared really well and came in and took charge of the team, and that is what we want him to do again in game two and let 'Mun' and Kalyn look for plenty of opportunities."
Maroons right centre Robert Toia scored the opening try in Sydney when he was first to a Walker grubber kick.
The duo play together in clubland and Toia has learned to expect the unexpected whenever he has the ball in his hands. It is a combination the 21-year-old said he hoped would pay dividends in Melbourne.
"It is just knowing what Sammy can do and being alert, because he can do anything on the field," Toia said.
"It is about being on my toes and knowing that he could do something at any moment."
