LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
"The young gun reminds me a bit of Craig Wing," said Blues coach Michael Maguire, hoping that Connor Watson can bring some of that same flair and impact off the bench as the Blues legend did in his heyday.
Maguire made the bold decision to go with Watson as the utility player for game two over Matt Burton, citing the Roosters livewire's ability to change the momentum of the game against tiring forwards, much like Wing used to do for the Blues.
After facing criticism for not having a genuine utility in game one, Maguire has made five changes for game two in Melbourne, with Watson earning his Blues debut after a strong return at dummy-half for the Roosters following a month-long injury layoff.
"It'd mean the world to me," Watson said of the potential opportunity to don the sky-blue jersey.
"Every kid dreams of it.
Origin is the pinnacle of rugby league and it meant so much to us growing up.
If I do get the call, it'd be an unbelievable childhood dream come true."
With Watson's pace and creativity, Maguire hopes he can provide the spark the Blues need to turn the tables on the Maroons and secure a crucial victory in the State of Origin series.