Former Canterbury, NSW and Australian player Hazem El Masri believes the Blues have what it takes to win tonight’s opening State of Origin match against Queensland at Suncorp Stadium.
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El Masri, the greatest pointscorer in NRL history, was in Dubbo yesterday to watch the stars of the future compete in the David Peachey Shield and Russell Richardson Cup competition in his role as a Telstra and One Community ambassador.
Confirming the popularity of El Masri and rugby league in general the 35-year-old, who played one Origin match for NSW back in 2007, was swamped by young players as soon as he fulfilled media commitments.
But before the kids could get a crack he told the Daily Liberal he believes 2011 is the year the Blues can end Queensland’s five-year reign as champions.
"I think it is very important that our 6 and 7 lead the way because over the past five years Queensland’s halves, Lockyer and Thurston, have dominated," he said
"Origin time is a wonderful time of year for rugby league because people all around the place are looking forward to it.
"I was in Gladstone on Sunday and they are buzzing up in Queensland too. At Brisbane Airport I was pulled up a few times by people letting me know Queensland was heading for a sixth straight series win.
"No doubt it will be a close one. I think a score like 16-10 or 16-12. hopefully for NSW."
More than 450 children competed in yesterday’s competition, with St Pius X and St Laurence’s progressing in the Russell Richardson Cup and Dubbo South and St Matt’s Green (Mudgee) going through in the David Peachey Cup.
El Masri’s appearance was a highlight for most of the children, as well as a few adults, who lined up in the rain to get an autograph and photograph.
It was his second trip to country NSW in a month after attending the Outback Challenge at Bourke a few weeks ago.
"If you look back, so many guys from all around the regions in places like Dubbo and Orange and Wagga Wagga, have come along and represented their state and country," he said.
"The bush is such a great breeding ground for players and I know a lot of clubs are passionate about coming to the bush and promoting the game in general.
"You come to days like today and see kids aged 11 or 12 imitating things their heroes do on TV, guys like Thurston and Inglis.
"Our motto for NRL One Community is to get kids to stop playing Playstation or Wii and have a go at sport, preferably rugby league and help create a healthy community and a healthy Australia."
