Canberra second-rower Elliott Whitehead says his teammate Jack Wighton is one of the most versatile players in the NRL following a breakout performance for NSW.

Wighton was handed the No. 4 jersey for State of Origin game two despite having not played in the centres since 2014.

The Raiders five-eighth threw an intercept in the Blues’ game one loss but then repaid the faith of Blues coach Brad Fittler in a thumping win on Sunday and will be a certain starter for the decider on July 10.

Whitehead said Wighton could play anywhere in the back line and backed the 26-year-old to deliver again when the Raiders face Parramatta in Darwin on Saturday.

“I thought he played really well last night, playing in the centres which he hasn’t done in a while and he did a great job,” Whitehead said.

“I had all the confidence in him playing there, you can put him anywhere in that back line and he’ll do the job, I had no problem with him playing there and neither did Brad Fittler, that’s why he was picked.

“He got the ball and ran hard and did some great carries and some tough yardage ones as well.

“He probably wanted to prove that himself after the first game and he did a really good job of that, he should be proud of his efforts and hopefully he brings that back for us.

“I’m sure he’ll come in with a big smile on his face be ready to go this week, he’ll want to get the job done against Parramatta.”

Aidan Sezer said his Green Machine halves partner would slot back in seamlessly against the Eels.

“Game one when Jacko came back against the Tigers he was one of our best players and he really leads by example with his defence and aggression,” Sezer said.

“He’s a natural footballer and I think Jacko can play well wherever they put him. It was good to see him play well and get his first win in Origin.”