Rugby league legend Benny Elias believes that the State of Origin series needs to “bring back the biff”, to reclaim its former magic.
Speaking on Sportsday, the former New South Wales Blue recommended a rule change to encourage more physicality in Origin clashes.
“What phases me to no end, is that when they want to promote State of Origin, they use the big hits and the biff,” Elias told Gary Belcher and Scott Sattler.
“But you’re not allowed to do it anymore, I think they’ve taken a lot of that away.
“You have to differentiate what an NRL game is compared to what a State of Origin game is, and not just make it just a faster NRL game.
“I think they should introduce some new rules for State of Origin only and abide by it … let the war begin.
“It should be five minutes in the sin-bin (as opposed to the current 10-minute penalty).
“If you want to take the risk of having five (minutes) in the bin, it’s still a big mortal sin and a big psychological advantage to the opposition.
Despite New South Wales’ emphatic 34-10 victory over Queensland in Game 2, Elias said the most exciting moment of the contest was the scrap between Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Payne Haas.
“I was at the game last week when the biff started,” Elias added.
“There was a louder cry then, compared to when both teams came out onto the football paddock.
“That is the people talking.”
The State of Origin decider is set for Wednesday night at Suncorp Stadium.
You can hear all the action live on SEN from 7pm AEDT with your choice of three calls.
CALL 1: Blues Radio - Parochial NSW call with Jimmy Smith and Steve Roach
CALL 2: Maroons Radio - Parochial QLD call with Mark Braybrook, Gary Belcher & Scott Sattler
CALL 3: Origin Live - Neutral call with Joel Caine, Matt Ballin, Brett Kimmorley
