When Jake Trbojevic was chosen as NSW captain, he became the fifth Manly Warringah Sea Eagles junior to achieve this honour.
Trbojevic’s selection sees him join Roy Bull, Max Krilich, Alan Thompson and Geoff Toovey as proud local Manly juniors to have led NSW against Queensland.
Ahead of his 17th appearance for the Blues, Trbojevic becomes the 21st captain of NSW when he leads the team out at Accor Stadium, Homebush, on Wednesday, June 2.
Trbojevic becomes the third Sea Eagles player to captain NSW behind Geoff Toovey and Max Krilich in the Origin period.
Thompson and Bull captained NSW in the Interstate Series prior to Origin starting in 1980.
“It’s very special. That’s a cool list to be on with those great Manly players,’’ Trbojevic said.
It follows on from the wonderful news for Manly that Trbojevic and Queensland captain Daly Cherry-Evans will become the first two Manly players to captain their respective states for the first time in the club’s history dating back to 1947.
Cherry-Evans, the long-serving Sea Eagles captain and record holder for most games for Manly, has led the Maroons to three series victories.
“This is a great achievement for our club. It’s very special and a really proud moment for Manly,’’ Trbojevic added.
Mal Meninga and Laurie Daley (1992-94, Canberra) and Adrian Lam and Brad Fittler (1999-2000, Roosters) have previously captained their respective states at the same club at the same time.
Krilich, who led NSW into the first three-match State of Origin series in 1982, congratulated Trbojevic on joining the rare list.
"Jake will be a great leader for NSW. He will lead the way with his sheer passion and strength,'' Krilich said.
"This is another huge honour for our club and for NSW. I wish Jake all the very best and know he will do well."
Thompson also offered his congratulations to the much respected Trbojevic.
"It was great to hear the news that Jake will captain NSW,'' Thompson said.
"I am sure his passion will influence the team to perform at their best.
"It is great honour for Jake and one that is truly well deserved."
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