LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Stefano Utoikamanu, a forward for the Westpac NSW Blues, attributes his recent form and recall to the State of Origin team to his off-season move to the Melbourne Storm.
Following Mitchell Barnett's torn ACL, Utoikamanu was selected for Game Two, preparing for his second appearance with the Blues.
His decision to leave the Wests Tigers surprised many, but the desire to return to the Origin arena significantly influenced his choice.
Utoikamanu's debut for NSW was bittersweet, as he played only 12 minutes off the bench during a 32-6 loss, with Queensland claiming the shield.