NRL Podcast: Soward on why the Blues need to win Origin III

Former New South Wales five-eighth Jamie Soward says winning Holden State of Origin game three on Wednesday night is crucial for the Blues' long-term success.

Brad Fittler's new breed of Blues are chasing the state's first clean sweep since he captained NSW to a 3-0 series victory in 2000.

"It's time for New South Wales now," Soward told the NRL Podcast.

"This is more important for the future. A lot of those guys that are playing this year for Queensland are going to be there next year, and the year after that.

"If NSW can say 'Hey we beat you 3-nil last year, we're going to do a job [on you] again this year', it's going to be damaging for Queensland."

Soward also spoke about the importance of returning Queensland halfback Daly Cherry-Evans to take control of the Maroons and make it "his team".