Norman perfect No.6 for Maroons in Origin III: Gillett

On paper, Corey Norman appears a huge risk after being named to make his Queensland debut as starting five-eighth in a State of Origin series decider.

But after making his NRL debut alongside Norman 10 seasons ago, Maroons backrower Matt Gillett reckons there is "no better bloke" than the St George Illawarra playmaker to pick at No.6 for July 10's clash in Sydney.

Cameron Munster (right) gets past Corey Norman (left) during Queensland State of Origin training at Langlands Park in Brisbane.Credit:AAP

"I debuted with him back in 2010 and he hasn't changed one bit.

"He is a footy player. He plays what is in front of him. He doesn't get too caught up over whether it is a big game or anything like that.

"You couldn't have picked a more perfect bloke for this occasion."

Norman's halves combination with Cherry-Evans is as yet unproven.

However, Gillett believed Norman's understanding with Queensland hooker – and St George Illawarra halves partner – Ben Hunt would help ease the burden for the rookie in game three.

"He's been playing great with Ben Hunt at the Dragons so the combinations are great coming into this game," he said.

"And club combinations coming into Origin are very important."

Maroons great Billy Moore was also convinced.

"I've always had this theory that if Corey Norman was given a chance at Origin level he would do a good job and now we get to find out," he told Fox Sports.

"And he has to play No.6. DCE (Cherry-Evans) loves to be the general and lead the team around the park and has a great kicking game and that should free Norman up to be a strike player."

Norman turned Cherry-Evans into a believer after their first Maroons training session on Tuesday.

"He has had to wait a long time (for Origin selection) but it hasn't fazed him," Cherry-Evans said.

"I'm sure he has been hungry and motivated but for him to rock into camp and train like he did (on Tuesday) and fit right in with the group is exciting."

"I have known Corey for a while now so there hasn't been a worry about us not gelling.

"Now it is just about combinations on the field and that will come with repetition this week."

AAP

Source: Read Full Article