Anthony Milford pictured today next to the team bus, parked out the QRL office.
Maroons rookie Anthony Milford concedes he had “mixed emotions” when he was informed of his selection in the Queensland Origin squad last night.
“I was obviously disappointed in the loss (to the Broncos), but in saying that I was happy I got named in the squad,” the Raiders fullback told QRL.com.au
Milford, who earlier this year captained the Queensland Under 20s, barely had time to cool his heels after the Monday night match when he was informed of his selection.
“A reporter ran up to me and said ‘how do you feel getting selected in the squad’. I didn’t even know the team was announced.”
But now that he’s had nearly 24 hours for it all to sink in, Milford is jumping out of his skin.
The former Souths Logan junior arrived in Brisbane today and met up with the Origin squad’s Broncos players for a sponsor’s lunch with guests of XXXX at Milton.
“It’s always been a dream (to play Origin),” he said.
“Growing up, it’s the three most important games you want to watch all year, especially growing up as a Brisbane boy (and being a) proud Queenslander.”
Milford will tonight meet the rest of his new teammates at Sanctuary Cove, with the full squad arriving from far and wide following the Longreach Fan Day and other commitments.
He is part of an extended squad with the final team yet to be finalised due to a number of key injuries.
“I’m just going to try and get as much experience as I can learning off all the experienced boys who have been in the Origin arena,” Milford said.
“I’m up here to enjoy myself and I’m looking forward to putting my best foot forward.
“I’ll just see what Mal (Meninga) wants me to do. I’ll prepare the best way I can.”
