Penrith’s Adam Docker from induced coma to New South Wales Blues Origin jersey, says Mark Geyer

MARK Geyer says the moment Adam Docker woke from a coma, was when he secured his right to a sky blue Origin jersey.

ADAM Docker was an Origin player the moment he opened his eyes.

But don’t take our word for it.

Ask Mark Geyer, the legendary NSW enforcer who lists March 19, 2012 — the day this Penrith young gun woke from a coma — as the moment his right to a sky blue jersey was secured.

“Origin, we say, is all about digging deep,’’ Geyer tells The Daily Telegraph.

“And you can’t dig much deeper than this kid has.”

Penrith's Adam Docker in hospital after being assaulted in March 2012 Credit: supplied

The victim of a brutal, and unprovoked, Cronulla street bashing two years ago, Docker now finds his Origin claims being pushed by no less than a Penrith, NSW and Australian great.

“I think Docker has Origin written all over him,’’ Geyer says of the 23-year-old who tonight faces South Sydney at Centrebet Stadium.

“He’s in the same mould as Boyd Cordner from the Roosters — he can hit, he can run and, if given the chance, will be just as successful.

“I’ve been watching him closely for a while now and his game has gone to another level. It’s incredible when you consider, only two years ago, he was almost bashed to death.”

Adam Docker of the Panthers breaks a tackle.

But what about the notion of Origin being for big men? Especially in the forwards, where a 90kg Docker would be the smallest by some margin.

“Yeah, but have you seen him up close?’’ Geyer continues. “No, he isn’t your typical six foot three, 107kg backrower.

“But the guy looks 10 kilos heavier than they have him listed. Barrel chest, massive shoulders, he’s built like a brick shithouse.

“It’s not coincidence that, since arriving out here, things have really changed for his team.”

Adam Docker is tackled.

While Docker has no memory of his assault, the Panthers lock can tell you about everything since.

So too can Geyer, who has taken a close interest in the young gun now wearing No. 13 for his beloved Panthers.

“So often footballers who have to overcome obstacles in life, real challenges, go on to great things,’’ Geyer says.

“Not only does it make them hungry, they appreciate every minute they’re in the game.

“I think Adam’s doing a wonderful job at Penrith. So many are. Guys like Lewis Brown, who I’m a massive fan of, and Jeremy Latimore who has been unbelievably impressive. Our big men are really starting to intimidate.”