‘Bit of a needle': Haas' Origin prep reveal

Perth Now

a day ago

Payne Haas is having injections to help manage an ongoing back issue the NSW enforcer is adamant won't stop him performing in the third and deciding State of Origin clash in Sydney next week.
Haas was among several Blues players who watched or only took slight part in the opening training session at the Blue Mountains base on Wednesday, including Hudson Young (groin) and Brian To'o (knee).
Key playmakers Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai did some light drills with a week to ramp up preparations, and Haas was adamant that he was sticking to a plan that would have him ready to play.
'I didn't do much today, I had a bit of a needle and am just resting up for the game,' Haas told media on Wednesday.
'I think I'm just being soft. I'll do a bit more tomorrow, all good.
'I've had a back problem all year, I've been a bit sore, the staff at Brisbane thought it was best I had a needle before I come in (to camp) and feel good for the game.' Payne Haas watches his NSW teammates train on Wednesday. Rohan Kelly Credit: News Corp Australia
Haas said he was being 'transparent' with NSW team officials and he'd spent days in between games for the Brisbane Broncos resting to ensure he was fighting fit come game day.
'People are looking after me well and I've got full faith in that,' he said.
'It's all part of the game, You are never 100 per cent and I just want to go out there and do his job.
'I know my prep, I know my job and I want to go out the and do the job well.'
Haas said himself, Young and To'o would join in training on Thursday.
Penrith flyer To'o remains the major injury concern and needs to show by the weekend that he's ready to play. Jacob Kiraz, who is on standby as 18th man, did take part in Wednesday's session.
But Haas said he To'o was a 'freak' and would be ready come game time next Wednesday.