'Bring the best out of Spencer': Teammates backing NSW Blues firebrand to thrive in hostile environment
Spencer Leniu will be public enemy No.1 next week in the State of Origin opener, but the firebrand front-rower wouldn't have it any other way.
In the wake of his explosive stand-off with Johnathan Thurston last month, Leniu has been placed on a media ban, which has continued during NSW Blues camp.
Leniu and Thurston got into an altercation after the Roosters' clash against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium and both men will be in the same venue again next Wednesday..
READ MORE: Eagles star's career in 'serious doubt' over concussion
READ MORE: Hird reveals 'concerning' calls after report
READ MORE: Bosnich's warning to Spurs over Ange sacking reports
The 24-year-old is expected to be a target for Maroons players and perhaps more likely, the abundance of diehard Queensland fans in the grandstands.
Johnathan Thurston and Spencer Leniu. NRL Photos
But according to teammate Stephen Crichton, that type of reception will only ignite the fire inside Leniu as he looks to make an impact again on the game's biggest stage.
"I'll definitely have his back, I know a lot of the boys will," Crichton told 9News Sydney.
"Especially going up there, it's hard to play in Queensland. It's gonna be pretty hectic.
"With that situation, I feel like it's gonna bring the best out of Spencer. He will be ready and he will be excited. That's how Origin is - you're gonna be going at it with them."
Watch the 2025 State of Origin series exclusively live and free on Nine and 9Now.
Crichton also brushed aside concerns over Leniu and Latrell Mitchell refusing to speak to media in the lead-up to the game on May 28.
"I don't really mind, I didn't even know," the Bulldogs star said.
Spencer Leniu during last year's Origin series. Getty
Leniu was a force to be reckoned with off the bench in last year's series and while his form in club land has been mixed, the Roosters enforcer is no stranger to big matches.
Already a two-time premiership winner, the impact prop will add plenty of spark for the Blues, who will start the game with Payne Haas and Mitch Barnett.
NSW named one debutant for the series opener, with Max King selected on the bench.
