It was only 377 days ago that Max Plath suffered a season-ending ACL and MCL injury playing for the Dolphins against the Dragons in Round 14, 2025.
Now, the versatile Plath is revelling in a standout performance for Queensland that included a stint at five-eighth as the Maroons levelled the series with a 44-24 defeat of the Blues in Origin II at the MCG.
“It's pretty special feeling to get the debut in Game I, and then now get the win in Game II,” Plath said post-match.
“It's what you play for, isn't it? It's super special. I represent my family in Queensland, and my teammates are a big family to me too. It’s great to share these moments.
“I just want to keep it rolling. Hopefully we can get another win.”
Trent Loiero Try
The 24-year-old was typically tough to handle, racking up Queensland’s second-highest post-contact metres (47), making 14 hit-ups and completing 28 tackles.
It was in the halves where he impressed the most, deputising for Cameron Munster in the final 20 minutes of the first half while the Maroons skipper underwent a HIA.
Plath also produced a try-assist for the Maroons’ opener, scored by fellow interchange forward Trent Loiero.
“It was discussed briefly that if the situation was to happen, then that would be my role. I've grown up in that position, so defensively I know what I'm doing,” he explained post-game.
Like every Queenslander, Plath grew up dreaming of playing Origin. To get the opportunity to do so in the decider at Suncorp is something he will cherish.
However, the Dolphins utility is taking nothing for granted.
“With the ball, I was probably just a bit timid or holding myself back. It's probably something for me to work on in camp the next game,” he said.
From the field: Cameron Munster
“I gained a lot of self-belief tonight. I feel like I'm a footy player, and I can play other positions, but getting that experience is another thing too. It’s a great learning, and something to work on.
“I’ll enjoy this moment right now, but if Billy (Slater, Maroons coach) gives me another call, it'll be super special. I grew up as a supporter going to Suncorp a bunch of times, so I’m looking forward to that.”
All signs are positive that the boy from Brisbane will be there in Game III, with Slater saying that the Maroons appreciate Plath's work ethic, versatility and skill.
“He gets (praise) inside these four walls,” Slater said post-game. Those players are invaluable.
"We've got a six-man middle forward rotation that are all very capable. They know their game, they know what to go after, and they practice it, and they lock into it, and that's a big part of the engine of this footy team.”
