After experiencing the unexpected this series following the international eligibility rule changes, Addin Fonua-Blake is looking to take what he gained from Blues camp into this year’s Rugby League World Cup campaign with Tonga.
The imposing prop grew up in Mascot and currently serves as co-captain for Tonga with Jason Taumalolo, but until the rule change, was unable to represent his state because he played a Test for New Zealand at the 2017 World Cup.
After getting the call up from coach Laurie Daley to experience the Origin arena for the first time before Game One this year, Fonua-Blake made an impact in winning the decider for the Blues, with a punchy 66 metres with three tackle breaks from his 25-minute stint up front.
“I feel good, proud as of all the boys,” Fonua-Blake said after the game.
“A lot was said about us as a playing group and for us to turn up the way we did and get the job done, it's unreal and we love it.
Match: Maroons v Blues
Game 3 -
home Team
Maroons
away Team
Blues
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
“I think I've said it a lot over this campaign, (playing Origin) was a game that I thought that was passing me given the rules then, so to get given a shot by Loz (was special) …
“Game One, we didn't get it our own all our own way, but to come back to win the way we did (was important) and then Game Two – I didn't get much playing time, but was still grateful to be a part of the squad.
“Then to come out here in the decider and to get a win over Queensland in Queensland, it's such a buzz and it's something that I'll remember forever.
“It's something that, when it's all said and done, I can hang my hat on it, you know what I mean?”
Having debuted in the NRL in 2016 with Manly before a stint with the Warriors on his way to Cronulla – where he joined last year, winning their player of the year award in his first season – Fonua-Blake has seen plenty in the game.
However, he is still learning and said his time in camp was something he would learn a lot from.
“I have gotten heaps out of this experience,” Fonua-Blake said.
“I've been playing for a long time, but everyone says that this is the pinnacle of rugby league and to finally get a shot to test myself and play alongside some of the greatest players and against some of the greatest players in the game, it's a dream come true.
“Words can't describe how grateful I am to be in this position.
“I've loved every moment of it and to finally get the win here tonight and celebrate with the boys, it's unreal.”
With a home World Cup being staged in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea around the corner, Fonua-Blake said he was “100%” looking forward to representing his nation once again.
“I can't wait to put on the red jersey at the end of the year," Fonua-Blake said.
“We didn't go the way we wanted to go last year (during the Pacific Championships) and I've been itching to get back there and rectify some of the performances we put in last year.
“Hopefully all the boys can stay healthy and then we get a good squad to pick out of.
“With all the leaders that are in this (Blues) team, I will definitely take a few lessons out of all of it.”
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