Queensland powerhouse second-rower Jaydn Su'A, an old-fashioned State of Origin hitman, is ready to make more of an impact early in game two of the State of Origin series.
The Maroons have had players like Su'A over the years who love nothing more than cutting opponents in half, with Trevor Gillmeister, Tonie Carroll and Ben Te'o three who come to mind.
Su'A, 26, was recalled to the Maroons side for the 38-10 win in game one in Sydney after last playing Origin in 2021.
He revealed the week leading into the Sydney clash had been draining.
"I definitely feel like there is more in me. Being back in that Origin arena it was a bit emotionally draining," Su'A said.
"I was emotionally drained in the sense that I hadn't been in this team for so long. It was an emotional time for me and my family. I will be better for it and will make sure I build my week."
Su'A, who won his recall on the back of strong form for St George-Illawarra, said getting that first Origin back from the wilderness out of the way was a relief and that he felt more composed in camp the second time around. As a result, he said he wanted to make more of an impact early in the match at the MCG.
"That is what I would like to do," he said.
"We got the job done in game one, but we want to go down to Melbourne with a bang and show everyone what this team is about."
Maroons veteran Felise Kaufusi has a similar story to Su'A in that he was not selected last year for Origin due to suspensions. He too has been recalled and is glad he has Su'A by his side.
"Absolutely. He has so well deserved his spot with the way he has been playing," Kaufusi said.
"He has been outstanding and it has been awesome for me watching him because you don't know if that (Origin) ship has sailed or whether they are looking at you again or whether you have got a chance.
"He has just taken it with both hands. His footy speaks for itself."
Kaufusi also takes no prisoners with his aggressive approach. Su'A, while playing for the Dragons against Manly last week, let his Maroons skipper Daly Cherry-Evans feel the power of one of his rib ticklers.
"He is a hitman. He can bloody hurt some people," Kaufusi said.
"I think he got Cherry-Evans on the weekend if you watch that game back. He is an enforcer himself, so that is part of his game and what he brings to Queensland."
