Addin Fonua-Blake is bubbling with enthusiasm as he prepares to team up with Payne Haas in the front row for the NSW Blues during Game 2, aiming to disrupt Queensland's forward pack.
Haas, fresh off a six-week recovery from a knee injury, is set to be back in the mix for selection by Laurie Daley.
Returning to action with the Brisbane Broncos against the St George Illawarra Dragons, Haas showcased his ability, making 23 runs for an impressive 281 metres.
The combination of Fonua-Blake and Haas is expected to pose a significant threat during the upcoming match in Melbourne. Speaking with the Sydney Morning Herald, Fonua-Blake shared his eagerness to hit the field alongside Haas and wreak some havoc.
"That'd be an ideal situation to go out and get to play alongside him. I definitely think he's one of the best players to ever play the game," said Fonua-Blake.
He continued, "I've played against him a lot of times and obviously seen what he's capable of. I feel like that would be a really good one-two punch."
Starting alongside Mitch Barnett in the front-row, Fonua-Blake faced early challenges as Queensland quickly surged to a 20-0 lead within the first 20 minutes.
However, the Blues managed to recover and ultimately secured a stunning victory, leaving Daley with key considerations for selection in the next game. Haas is likely to be included in the starting lineup to prevent Queensland from gaining an early advantage.
"They had no ball and him, and Mitch Barnett were off before they had one or two carries each," remarked Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon about Fonua-Blake after Friday's match.