Liam Martin is returning to the NSW Origin team, evoking a sense of déjà vu ahead of next week's decider at Suncorp Stadium.
This back-rower, who played 15 consecutive Origin matches from his debut in 2021 until last year, faced a frustrating injury that temporarily sidelined him.
Initially, Martin feared he would miss out on representing the Blues again until 2026.
Watching the first two games from home was particularly tough, especially the second match.
NSW claimed a historic victory in the series opener but then suffered a disappointing loss at the MCG after leading at halftime.
Having experienced the agony of spectating, Martin is eager not to go through that again.