State of Origin newcomer Ethan Strange has shared the surreal experience he had when he received the call informing him of his inclusion in the NSW Blues squad. He expressed his shock at seeing Laurie Daley's name pop up on his phone.
At only 21, Strange is among seven debutants in Daley's lineup for Game 1, marking a rapid ascension from teenage talent to one of the NRL's most exciting playmakers in under three years.
The five-eighth for the Canberra Raiders made his NRL debut towards the end of 2023 and has since established himself as the team's first-choice number six, even gaining a spot in Australia's Ashes squad last year, where he trained with top-tier players.
Reflecting on the moment he learned about wearing the sky blue jersey, Strange recalled that the call from Daley was unforgettable.
"I didn't know if I was expecting it; it was a little later, and Hudson (Young) got the call a bit earlier than I, so you know I wasn't 100% sure."
"I was at home with the partner watching the footy, then I saw his (Laurie Daley's) name come up, and I was like, oh my god, what's going on here."
The moment also struck an emotional chord with his father, John Strange, a highly regarded coach in the NRLW circuit.
Currently leading both the Sydney Roosters NRLW team and the NSW women's squad, John is celebrated as a top coach in women's rugby, having secured multiple premierships throughout his tenure.
"He (Dad) was stoked. He did a lot for me with football and everything growing up. He was just as happy when he found out," Strange said.