Key Origin III match-ups
MATCH-UPS TO ENJOY IN THE THIRD STATE OF ORIGIN GAME
JOHNATHAN THURSTON v JOSH REYNOLDS
Who would have thought the two five-eighths would have been involved in the ugliest incident in Origin two. Reynolds started it with a subtle cheap shot and then Thurston went completely over-board with a forearm into Reynolds' throat. The pair apologised to each other post-match. But Reynolds will push the boundaries again and Thurston is the most competitive player in the world.
GREG INGLIS v JOSH DUGAN
Josh Morris - the man who has defended Inglis so well in the past, is back in the NSW team. But he won't dislodge Dugan who retains his place on the right going toe-to-toe with the most dangerous attacking weapon on the field. Dugan has made a great fist of centre, but he doesn't have much experience in defensive reads - and if Inglis is on song he can really put the New South Welshman through his paces. But Dugan has a big awkward frame of his own that he will throw at the defensive line with every carry.
BILLY SLATER v JARRYD HAYNE
The ultimate match-up. The two best fullbacks in rugby league and arguably the two best players. Will this game settle the score? Slater has had a mortgage on the Australian No.1 jersey for a long time, but surely Hayne is edging closer to stealing it from him. The Parramatta star has been simply outstanding this year in Origin and club football. But despite early criticism, Slater has also been strong. If either of these brilliant ball-runners break into the backfield, watch for the other to come hunting in defence. An epic showdown awaits.
