LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Queensland Rugby League legend Darren Lockyer has come clean on the real reason behind David Fifita's omission from the Maroons State of Origin team for Game 3.
Lockyer, known for his sharp wit and strategic mind on the field, has spilled the beans on Fifita's continued absence from the squad, citing the young forward's inability to step up when the going gets tough.
Fifita, a promising talent with a reputation for wreaking havoc on the field, has been left out of the Maroons squad for the entirety of the series, much to the surprise of many fans and critics alike.
Speculation has been rife about the reasons behind Fifita's exclusion, with some pointing to his rumored dalliance with the Sydney Roosters and others suggesting that coach Billy Slater is looking for players who can put in the hard yards consistently.
In a classic Lockyer move, the former Maroons captain and selector set the record straight, revealing that Fifita's lack of stamina and work ethic under pressure is the main factor in his non-selection.
It seems that Slater, a legendary player in his own right, is looking for players who can weather the storm and deliver when it matters most - a trait that has defined Queensland's success in the past.
As the stage is set for the series decider at Suncorp Stadium, the Maroons will be looking to their chosen warriors to rise to the occasion and secure victory.
With the stakes higher than ever and the battle lines drawn, it's clear that only the best and bravest will earn their spot on the field.
In the game of Rugby League, as in life, it's all about who can dig deep, push through the pain, and come out on top when it counts the most.