New South Wales forward Liam Martin isn’t fazed about being called a “grub” or any other name by the Maroons.
The unheralded backrower hit the headlines this week when Queensland media outlets identified him as the “biggest grub” of this year’s State of Origin series.
Journalists highlighted a number of incidents from game one where they claim Martin employed dirty tactics on Maroons players.
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But rather than be embarrassed by the sledge, Martin wears it like a badge of honour.
“I don’t know… I get told I’m a grub,” he told Nine’s Danny Weidler in Perth ahead of Origin II.
“I don’t mind the name. I just think whatever happens on the field stays on the field. When you shake hands, it’s over.
“I just put it on myself to do my best to throw them off their game.”
The Blues are playing catch-up, after losing the series opener by six points in Sydney.
Coach Brad Fittler lamented the fact the Maroons were able to slow the ruck down, and essentially choke NSW out of the contest.
He wants Martin’s teammates to employ the same “grubby” tactics, if it helps them win the game on Sunday.
“I’m not sure how many of our players played like that, and there was plenty of theirs (Queensland’s),” Fittler said.
“It’s State of Origin. That is what it’s about, they are good storylines. I think (Martin) enjoyed it.
“What we want to do is we want to compete as hard as possible. If that’s what we consider competing, then I think he did a good job.”
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