In Wayne, we trust.
That’s the mantra that Kevin Walters claims will not only spark yet another State of Origin series upset by a written-off Queensland but also help him deal with “unfinished business” as a former Maroons coach.
Walters admits he has had mixed emotions walking away from the Queensland gig after a four-year stint blighted by two straight defeats to NSW in order to take up the Brisbane reins ahead of the 2021 NRL season.
Especially after the Maroons this week named their most inexperienced line-up in 19 years for Wednesday’s Origin opener in Adelaide.
But Walters – who officially takes over as Broncos mentor on Sunday – reckons his anxiety over relinquishing the Maroons job has been eased by wiley Wayne Bennett’s return as Queensland coach.
“There’s mixed emotions after speaking to some of the players in camp,” Walters told AAP.
“My time with Queensland Rugby League has been great. I am grateful and for that time to be coming to an end it is sad for sure.
“When pressed if he still wanted to be in the Queensland coach’s box so he could end NSW’s two-year reign, Walters said: “Of course … that was part of the disappointment of moving on. There was some unfinished business.”
But Walters’ melancholy over his Queensland exit quickly evaporated when the topic turned to his replacement – his former Broncos mentor and seven-time premiership winner Bennett.
Asked why he was confident a Queensland 17 with eight debutants named for game one could win, Walters said: “In Wayne, we trust.
“There’s enough talent in there to win.
“It’s down to the coaching staff and I am sure Wayne will get them primed for three of their best performances because that is what it is going to take but I can’t see any reason why Queensland can’t win.”
NSW critics will no doubt roll their eyes at the ever-optimistic Walters’ prediction but history is on Bennett’s side.
Bennett masterminded the Maroons’ 2001 series win after naming 10 rookies in game one, adding another chapter to a rich history of Queensland throwing the form guide out the window.
Indeed, NSW will no doubt be wary of yet another Maroons ambush after Queensland’s against-the-odds wins in 1995 without their Super League stars.
And most recently in 2006 Queensland started the series with seven debutants, only to win the first of an unprecedented eight straight titles.
Walters reckoned Queensland would not only spring a surprise in the series but also with their Origin I starting 17, saying Bennett may re-jig it before kick-off.
“Wayne has always got a few tricks up his sleeve – it’s all part of the ducks and drakes of Origin,” he said.
Walters also hasn’t given up on returning to the Origin fold.
“Wayne has been back three or four times hasn’t he? There might be a second coming for Kevvie as well one day,” he said.