NSW back-rower Glenn Stewart says he would love to be a part of State of Origin III but has no idea whether his knee will recover in time to play in the series decider.
Stewart limped off Brookvale Oval a week ago after straining a medial ligament in Manly’s loss to Melbourne, and was considered no chance of playing for the Blues at Suncorp Stadium on July 4.
But after being named by NSW coach Ricky Stuart on Sunday, Stewart said he would do everything possible to be there as the Blues bid to win their first series since 2005.
“I’ll just get a bit of physio this week and rest up and probably try and run on it later on in the week,” Stewart said as the NSW players gathered in camp on Monday.
“That’s probably all I can give you.
“(The knee) came out of the brace today so just getting a bit of blood flow back in there.
“Obviously I’m very keen to be playing and I thank Ricky for the opportunity considering he didn’t have to (pick me).
“It’s a huge game and everyone playing the game would like to be a part of it and I’m no different.”
Stewart will have a fitness test to gauge the progress of the knee on Thursday or Friday, with St George Illawarra back-rower Beau Scott to remain in camp on standby.