LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Mate, it was a tense scene at the press conference when Billy Slater was asked about potential late changes to his Maroons squad for the State of Origin opener.
The legendary coach refused to give a straight answer, keeping everyone guessing about his game plan.
As he faced the media in Sydney, Slater was as cool as a cucumber, refusing to confirm if the team named would be the one running out onto the field tomorrow night.
"We've still got some time to play with, but we'll make that call closer to kick off.
We've got until an hour before kick off to lock in the squad, and that's when it'll be set in stone," Slater said, playing his cards close to his chest.
Despite the uncertainty, Slater expressed unwavering confidence in his players, declaring, "I've put in the hard yards picking this team.
I've watched the Queenslanders more than anyone else, so I know what they're capable of."
With the big game just around the corner, all eyes will be on Slater to see if he sticks with the lineup he's chosen or throws a curveball at the last minute.
One thing's for sure, this Origin clash is shaping up to be one for the history books.