Queensland captain Cameron Munster is confident prop Tino Fa’asuamaleaui will do his late father Fereti proud in tomorrow night’s State of Origin II at the MCG.
Fa’asuamaleaui left the Maroons’ training camp on the Sunshine Coast last week after his father died following a battle with cancer.
He spent time with his family before rejoining Maroons teammates in Melbourne on Sunday.
Last year, Munster’s father Steven died while the Maroons were in camp on the Sunshine Coast preparing for the series-deciding Origin III in Sydney.
He left camp to be with his family before returning to play an inspirational and emotional role in a famous 24-12 win.
“We have obviously gone through some tough times, me and Tino, so I know exactly how he is feeling,” Munster said.
“When you lose your mentor, or an idol or a role model of your family, especially your dad, it does take a heavy toll on you.
“I know Fereti will be very proud of the man and father he has become.
“We all talk about rugby league accolades, but the values Fereti put in Tino … I am sure he will be a very proud dad tomorrow night regardless of the result.
“We know what Tino is about and we are right behind him … hopefully he can play the footy Fereti would be proud of.”
Maroons forward Kurt Capewell said Fa’asuamaleaui would do “anything for his teammates”, which was one reason why he has decided to play in the match.
“I can’t imagine what it’s like to go through,” Capewell said.
“All we can do is get around him and be there for him.”
AAP
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