Canberra Raiders players Hudson Young and Ethan Strange are expected to bring renewed energy and confidence back to the club after playing key roles in New South Wales’ State of Origin victory.Both players scored tries in Origin I, where the Blues mounted a remarkable comeback from 20-0 down to defeat Queensland.

Young and Strange are set to back up for the Raiders in a crucial NRL Round 13 match against the North Queensland Cowboys at Canberra Stadium, a game that could significantly influence their push for a top-eight finish.

Young’s Origin experience adds to his growing reputation, while Strange impressed in a late call-up at five-eighth following Mitchell Moses’ injury, performing seamlessly on the big stage.His potential to retain an Origin spot has been widely discussed, with coach Laurie Daley weighing selection options for Game II.

Raiders captain Joseph Tapine highlighted the value of representative experience, saying players often return with improved confidence and sharper skills after learning from elite teammates.He compared it to his own international experience with New Zealand, where he benefited from playing alongside world-class forwards.

Meanwhile, Daine Laurie is set to make an unusual positional switch to lock for the first time in his NRL career, adding further intrigue to the Raiders’ lineup.The club sits two wins outside the top eight and has struggled at home this season, making Sunday’s match vital.

Young fullback Kaeo Weekes also expressed ambitions of playing State of Origin in the future, reflecting the growing representative aspirations within the squad.

Overall, the Raiders are hoping their Origin representatives can translate big-game experience into improved club performance at a crucial stage of the season.