LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a recent report, it has been highlighted that Toia's ascent in rugby league is particularly remarkable given his battle with significant injuries, including two season-ending ACL tears and a broken jaw in the last three years.
Having only played 10 games in the NRL for the Sydney Roosters, Toia is set to make his State of Origin debut for Queensland at Suncorp Stadium next Wednesday.
If he succeeds, he will be the biggest Maroons rookie since Ikin, who only had four games of experience with the Gold Coast Seagulls when selected by Paul Vautin for the 1995 Origin series.
Ikin noted that several other players, such as Maroons backs Willie Carne and Dale Shearer, also had limited first-grade experience before their Origin debuts.
Interestingly, Vautin initially did not recognize Ikin at the Queensland team hotel, mistakenly telling him that autograph seekers should wait in the lobby.
Now the QRL CEO after a successful playing and media career, Ikin offered Toia words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of knowing oneself in high-pressure situations.
His support underscores belief in Toia's ability to excel on this significant stage.