'I think it'll be Marto': Angus Crichton tips back-row partner to 'explode' in State of Origin decider

NSW second-rower Angus Crichton did not hesitate when asked on radio on Wednesday night which of his teammates was set to "explode" in the State of Origin decider.

"I think it'll be Marto," Crichton laughed, nominating Panthers hardman Liam Martin, his partner in the Blues' second row.

Crichton was talking on 2GB's Wide World of Sports following a NSW training session in the Blue Mountains.

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He was asked by former NSW enforcer Mark Geyer who he was backing to "explode" at Accor Stadium next Wednesday night.

"We've played a few big games together now, and honestly, I said to him before the last game there's no one I'd rather pair up with in the back row," Crichton said of Martin.

"The aggression and the mindset that he brings into these big games, he lifts the team and definitely inspires me to do my best."

Martin, a tireless back-rower for Penrith, NSW and Australia, is renowned as one of the most competitive beasts in rugby league.

Ahead of game two of the 2022 Origin series, The Courier Mail branded him a "grub" and published pictures of him roughing up Queensland players in the series opener.

Watch the 2025 State of Origin series exclusively live and free on Nine and 9Now.

Asked about the changes made by Queensland for next Wednesday night's decider, Crichton said he "couldn't care less".

"They can do what they want to do," he said with a chuckle.

"I think we just need to focus on ourselves, focus on our discipline and starting fast, and we'll be fine."