Geelong’s Mark Blicavs has vowed to “have a crack” when he dons the ‘big V’ for State of Origin while calling for the concept to become permanent.
“I plan to take it pretty seriously,” the big Cats defender said on Wednesday.
“I remember watching a couple of State of Origins growing up. “The only state teams I’ve been involved in were from little athletics and cross country.”
Blicavs will represent Victoria on February 28 alongside Cats superstar Patrick Dangerfield when the AFL resurrects State of Origin to raise funds for bushfire relief.
“I don’t want to get anyone injured before the season but it’s something that I’ll be taking seriously for sure,” he said.
He suggested the AFL could bring back Origin midway through the season, like the “phenomenal” NRL version, to get players and coaches to “buy in”.
“I think it’s a massive honour and I’d like to see the State of Origin become something that happens each year.
“If they made it that prestigious event where it is an honour and people want to be selected, it’s something you’re ready to play for.”
“There could be injuries but that’s the risk you take.
Blicavs could find himself matching up on big Cats forward Tom Hawkins, while Irish teammate Zach Tuohy will also line up for the All Stars.
“To see who I’m playing against and playing alongside, it’s pretty much the best of the best, so I’m very excited,” he said.
“It’s nice to play with Dusty this time, and him burst out of packs and kick it away from my end, which will be nice.”
He also looked forward to playing with Richmond forward Tom Lynch and Collingwood’s Steele Sidebottom.
“I played AFLX with Steele Sidebottom last year and I think he’s very, very talented, the way he kicks and the way he moves,” he said.
“I think it should be pretty high scoring and a lot of fun.”
Blicavs planned to take part in the Cats preseason opener against Gold Coast tomorrow.
“My body is feeling really good and I like to play as much as I can,” he said.
“It will only be the three or so games with a few scratchies in between so I am not too worried about the load.”
Blicavs admitted he was surprised one of the “greatest of all time”, Gary Ablett Junior, would not play in Origin.
“I didn’t select the teams,” he laughed.
“I think he’s fit and healthy and ready to go… but so be it, there’s plenty of greats in there.”
