Back in the frame: Beau Scott is rejoicing at the possibility of being recalled into the NSW team. Picture: Brendan Esposito
AN AIR of confidence among the NSW squad was apparent when recalled back-rower Beau Scott joined the Blues camp this week.
While Scott, 28, is unsure if he’ll add to his four interstate caps he said there is no doubting the NSW side are in a better position than last year to end Queensland’s State of Origin dominance.
‘‘There’s a confidence and belief,’’ Scott said. ‘‘I’m not saying it wasn’t here last year but I guess we’ve improved and we’re getting better.’’
Scott missed last year’s decider because of illness.
He was replaced by Glenn Stewart, a player whose own injury concerns this time around puts Scott’s place in the squad in doubt.
‘‘Having missed last years game it’s great to be back here,’’ Scott said.
‘‘If [Stewart] is fit he’ll be the first person picked so when [coach] Ricky [Stuart] knows I’m sure he’ll pass it on. It’s a big opportunity to play in the game with the series on the line. It’s pretty special.’’
The Blues were blasted off the park 24-0 after the opening half a hour, before losing the deciding Origin match last year.
‘‘We didn’t take our week of preparation onto the field — and it showed,’’ Scott said. ‘‘If we can prepare the way the team has prepared in the past two camps, hopefully we’ll get the result on the night.’’
Scott’s return to the representative scene caps an end to a tumultuous two months for the St George Illawarra star.
A dislocated elbow against Sydney Roosters on Anzac Day saw him miss three games. Scott said he had struggled since returning.
‘‘It was mentally tough more than physically,’’ Scott said.
‘‘I was trying to get my head around it and trying to get back to the standard that I expect from myself.
‘‘There’s plenty of improvement to come, but I’m getting there.’’