Penrith prop Spencer Leniu could be the answer to Brad Fittler's bench dilemmas as the NSW coach looks for ways to stop the Maroons from sweeping the State of Origin.
The Blues boss has come under scrutiny for mismanaging his bench and under-using star debutants Stefano Utoikamanu and 2022 Dally M medallist Nicho Hynes, who played out of position for 12 minutes in Origin I before being dumped from the team altogether.
With Fittler's contract up at the end of the series, and the potential for the first 3-0 Origin sweep since 2010, the coach will need to change his strategy.
As the Panthers' bench specialist, enforcer Leniu could prove Fittler's saving grace.
The 22-year-old regularly fires as a ferocious replacement for Penrith, decisively running the ball in sharp bursts and helping steer the Panthers to the top of the table.
Clubmate and NSW Origin winger Brian To'o believes Leniu would be an ideal selection for the Blues.
"I grew up with Spencer, he's definitely got that fire in him," Leniu said on Wednesday.
"He's always been that player that's ready for a big fight and a big game.
"Spenny is definitely a hard-working person. He's someone that looks forward to every opportunity and rises to the occasion."
Leniu was in the mix for Origin I before rupturing a testicle during a contact drill. He has since returned to the field to make his case for selection, notably going toe-to-toe with Sydney Roosters hard nut Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.
Ever-humble, Leniu hopes to play in game three but will first focus on the Panthers.
"I'll take it with both hands if I do get the chance but my brothers here wearing the black jersey will be at the forefront of my mind," he said.
Fittler has been under mounting pressure to redeem the Blues after his team threw away game one before surrendering the series with a galling performance in the second encounter.
While he has been hit with a barrage of criticism, including calls for his head, To'o remains thankful for the coach's guidance.
"Freddy's been a mentor to some of us boys, especially the Penrith boys given he's an ex-Penrith player as well," To'o said.
"Some of the teachings ... will reflect on our game and play a big part in the rest of our futures."
