Queensland Captain Cameron Munster’s Bold Vision for State of Origin
Queensland captain Cameron Munster has made it clear that his focus is on leveraging his attacking flair in tandem with debutant half Sam Walker as the Maroons prepare for the State of Origin series opener. Munster, who has recently returned to form, believes that Walker’s natural style of play will be key to their success.
Munster emphasized the importance of confidence and authenticity when speaking about his advice for Walker. “Back yourself,” he said, highlighting that Walker has been given the opportunity to wear the famous No.7 jersey for a reason. “We don’t want him going out there to be Johnathan Thurston or Cooper Cronk. Go and be Sam Walker.”
Restraint is not something Munster encourages, and he hopes Walker shares this mindset. “If it doesn’t come off, it doesn’t come off. That’s rugby league,” he explained. “I would rather him going out there and giving his all and trying the little tricks he has got in his bag rather than saying at the end of the game, ‘I wish I had done this, wish I had done that’.”
Munster has given Walker full freedom to express himself on the field. “He will be given full rein and full keys to the car and hopefully we will see Sammy Walker blossom.”
While some might expect Munster to take a more organisational role with Walker in the side, the veteran has made it clear that he will continue to play with an attacking mindset. His recent performances have reignited his passion for the game.
“I know I wasn’t up to scratch the way I had been playing previous years and then found some form the last couple of weeks,” Munster said. “It was probably about me going in and playing more attacking footy than those high percentage plays. The way the game is going at the moment you have got to be able to attack. Yes, you have to be able to defend but with the scorelines at the moment you can score 30 and not be comfortable.”
Despite his strong form, Munster did not train with the Queensland team on Sunday due to what he described as “soreness” and the effects of age catching up with him. However, he is set to participate in the team’s captain’s run on Tuesday in Sydney.
The Maroons left their Sunshine Coast base on Monday morning after Munster delivered his captain’s media conference, signaling the start of their preparations for the crucial match against the Roosters. With Munster and Walker at the helm, the Maroons are looking to make a strong statement in the opening game of the series.
