Maybe it’s a good thing Queensland have not followed NSW’s lead and ditched their State of Origin camp bonding night.
It will give Queensland coach Mal Meninga a chance to get better acquainted with debutant Aidan Guerra.
Twelve months after calling newcomer Chris McQueen “Steve”, Meninga again stumbled by introducing his latest addition Guerra as “Adrian”.
But Meninga was confident Sydney Roosters backrower Guerra would make a name for himself in the May 28 Origin series opener in Brisbane after replacing the injured Sam Thaiday (calf) in a 19-strong squad unveiled on Monday night.
“Adrian, um, Aidan has been part of our development program for a number of years,” Meninga said.
“He’s been playing terrific and he deserves his opportunity. We are confident of his ability.”
Guerra, 26, also suffered a mind blank when asked what he was doing during the last Origin clash, Queensland’s 12-10 game three victory in Sydney that sealed an unprecedented eighth straight series win.
“I don’t know. I think I was staying at home with a couple of mates watching it but obviously they were all Blues supporters,” Guerra said sheepishly.
Guerra was named on the bench for Thaiday, paving the way for Brisbane backrower Matt Gillett to make his starting debut for Queensland.
The recent form of Guerra – who played three Tests for Italy at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup – ensured Gold Coast wrecking ball David Taylor was overlooked.
But Meninga said Guerra’s 2013 grand final effort for the triumphant Roosters stamped him as an Origin player.
“Absolutely. Playing in big time games is really helpful and starting for the Roosters is no mean feat – he deserves to be here,” Meninga said.
Townsville-bred Guerra spent 2005-09 at Melbourne, ensuring he was familiar with new Queensland teammates Cameron Smith, Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk.
But Guerra admitted it was too early to tell whether that would ease his Origin nerves.
“I will know the answer to that when I get out there and train with them,” he said.
“(But) everyone who plays the game wants to be on this stage.
“I am glad I have got the chance to do it. I will do my best to step up to their level.”