One of the most iconic images from the historic 6-4 victory in Game II of the 2014 Origin Series was Jarryd Hayne running into the Blatchys Blues with his arms wide open right on full-time - a euphoric image that is forever etched in Origin folklore.
Fast-track to his return to the Origin arena in Game I this year, and Hayne re-lived the exact same moment when he crossed for the match-sealing try and stormed into the handful of Blatchys fans at Suncorp Stadium.
After a strong performance in the opening game that silenced his critics, Hayne evoked the passion of the Blues fans... and what it means to himself and the rest of the Blues squad.
“It’s just awesome to see them,” he said.
“We not only showcase NSW players but we showcase the whole state, what the state is about and the passion behind it.
With Laurie Daley keeping faith in the exact same squad that trounced Queensland 28-4 in game I, Hayne knows how important the home-ground advantage will be in their attempts to bring the trophy back to NSW.
Having been a part of so many series since his debut for NSW in 2007, Hayne has seen the evolution of the Blatchys fanbase and its development into one of Rugby League’s supporter groups.
“I think every year it gets bigger and bigger.
“It’s just been awesome [to see] - the Blatchys Blues are amazing and it’s an honour to be apart of the team again.”
