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FIFA World Cup 2026 posterStrange hungry for more Origin after 'massive' lessons
Sebastian Tan, AAP • June 1st, 2026 4:23 pm
Ethan Strange is gunning for a spot in State of Origin game two after debuting for NSW | Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP
Ethan Strange puts his standout State of Origin debut down to one thing: his main selection rival.
The 21-year-old five-eighth provided the spark for NSW to overcome Queensland 22-20 in the series opener last Wednesday, thrusting him into conversations about whether he should become the starting No. 6 for game two at the MCG on June 17.
Strange was only parachuted into the starting line-up after first-choice five-eighth Mitchell Moses picked up a hamstring niggle in camp.
But regardless of the outside talk, Canberra's playmaker credits Moses and halfback Nathan Cleary for helping him have a debut to remember.
"Moey (Moses) and Nathan are massive. Whenever I ask questions, they are always there to help me out, and they've got such smart football brains, so they never make it feel like it's a burden when I'm asking," Strange said.
"Just the way they see the game, they've obviously got experience and are some of the best halves in the game.
"Just even watching them at training, and the way they do things, and go about their work is (inspirational)."
Ethan Strange scored a crucial try for NSW in the State of Origin series opener | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
After getting a taste of the Origin cauldron, Strange is desperate to return and a solid performance in the Raiders 26-12 victory over North Queensland on Sunday will strengthen his case.
But he knows that the task to retain the five-eighth jersey is steep, especially after coach Laurie Daley hinted that Moses is in line to reclaim his starting spot while Parramatta coach Jason Ryles remains hopeful he can return for the Eels clash against Canterbury next Monday.
Strange is adamant he's blocking out the noise and will let his football do the talking.
"I'm only 21 years old, so I've definitely still got a lot to learn about the game of footy," he said.
"I've just got to keep trying hard for Canberra and training hard, and when I get in there, just being a sponge off those two boys, Moey and Nathan."
Nathan Cleary (left) and Mitchell Moses have helped Ethan Strange grow as a player | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
Another big selection call also looms for Daley after hooker Blayke Brailey fractured his right arm against Manly last Friday night.
The Raiders No.9 Tom Starling was at his metre-eating best while staying busy in defence against the Cowboys on Sunday, and Strange doesn't see why he shouldn't get the nod.
"Starlo (Starling) is in outstanding form. He has passion and everything for the game," he said.
