Mark Gasnier tutors Jack Wighton in the art of centre play ahead of first Origin start

Former Origin star Mark Gasnier will tutor Blues outside back Jack Wighton in the art of centre play ahead of the Canberra man’s first game in the position in five years.

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One-on-one tutoring from former NSW Origin centre Mark Gasnier has been included in Jack Wighton’s preparation for his first game in the centre position since 2014.

Overshadowed by the initial shock from Brad Fittler’s seven Blues changes for Origin II was the axeing of not only strike centre Latrell Mitchell, but game one tryscorer and experienced Cronulla left-centre Josh Morris.

Despite failing to disappoint in Brisbane, Morris was surprisingly overlooked for game one bench utility, Wighton.

Wighton will tackle Queensland on Sunday night on the left side with Manly’s Tom Trbojevic named at right centre.

Wighton has been in top form for Canberra. Picture by Brett Costello.

Of the duo, Trbojevic has at least shown his adaptability at the elite level, playing in the centres for Australia three times despite spending virtually his entire career with the Sea Eagles at fullback.

Wighton, a classy and physical footballer, with the ability to play a number of positions has spent the majority of his career with Canberra at fullback and most recently five-eighth.

Of his 143 NRL appearances, Wighton has spent 21 of those at centre with his last game in Round 23, 2014 for the Raiders.

Acutely aware of the precious little time they have to bed down trust and confidence in each other, the Blues are leaving no stone unturned.

It’s why Wighton met with Gasnier upon his arrival into the Blues airport hotel in Sydney on Sunday night.

The duo watched video and discussed the art of defending at centre for almost 40-minutes.

Wighton said he took tools from Gasnier of which he would use throughout the Blues Perth-based camp.

Wighton has replaced Latrell Mitchell at left centre. Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images.

He also showed no signs of discontent at being named in the centre’s despite impressing when coming on at five-eighth in Origin I.

“I’ve played a few times in the centre’s and it’s a little while ago now, because obviously I’ve played fullback and now five-eighth,’’ Wighton said.

“I’m excited. It’s going to be a different atmosphere running out and I can’t wait.

“I had a good chat (with Gasnier) about some key points to work on and tinker at throughout the week.

“It was awesome to sit down with him. His footy knowledge is great and what he does is, he keeps it nice and basic and gets to the point.

“I can’t wait to take on the moment.’’