The Knights may be without their State of Origin stars this weekend, but Lachlan Fitzgibbon believes the squad has hungry and able players ready to take on the Warriors in their absence.
Missing Tim Glasby (QLD Origin) and Daniel Saifiti (NSW Origin), plus Kalyn Ponga and Edrick Lee (injury), the Knights will test their depth on Saturday night.
Fortunately, several players are chomping at the bit for an opportunity to run out in front of a packed McDonald Jones Stadium.
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“There are boys who are pushing really strong in reserve grade. Mason (Lino) coming in on the weekend was pretty much seamless,” Fitzgibbon said.
“Whatever happens with the selections this weekend, I’m sure other boys can fill the role and if they don’t get picked (for Origin lll) they are a welcomed addition to our side.”
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Brad Fittler named his NSW side for the series decider on Monday afternoon with David Klemmer not included in the team.
There's speculation he could come into the team should Tariq Sims not be available.
He's set to fight a dangerous contact charge at the NRL judiciary on Tuesday.
Should Klemmer miss the Origin decider, Fitzgibbon is thrilled to have the prop available to face the Warriors.
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“In my opinion, Klemmer is the best prop in the world,” Fitzgibbon said.
“’m sure he’ll be fired up and ready to go however it plays out.”
With moral high heading into Round 16, Fitzgibbon spoke of the mindset which has pushed the Knights to succeed this season.
“We’ve gone into games believing we're going to win, and that’s the mentality you need to have if you want to play finals footy,” he said.
“It’s going to be a good challenge at home again.
"It’s a good opportunity for the boys who come up, because we'll have a few out this week, to really showcase what they’ve been doing in reserve grade.”
