Matt Scott backs Nate Myles to prove himself again for Queensland

MAROONS prop Matt Scott insists front-row partner Nate Myles deserves the opportunity to wear a Queensland jersey for the 30th time.

MAROONS prop Matt Scott insists front-row partner Nate Myles deserves the opportunity to wear a Queensland jersey for the 30th time.

Myles was on Tuesday night named in the starting pack for Wednesday week’s series opener at ANZ Stadium which will see him edge towards Petero Civoniceva as Queensland’s most capped prop.

Civoniceva played 33 games for the Maroons and Myles last year went past Steve Price (28 games) to move into second spot.

Nate Myles will play his 30th Origin for Queensland. Picture: Adam Head

Myles has only missed one game since debuting for Queensland in 2006, but his club form with Manly this season saw his position in the Maroons pack come under scrutiny.

Myles, 30, was pushed back to the bench for the Sea Eagles last weekend, making 38m in a 22-minute stint.

He has always performed for Queensland in the Origin arena though and Scott said he expected nothing less from Myles despite his mixed NRL form.

“The job Nate’s done for Queensland is extremely underrated,” Scott said.

“He’s one of those guys that would do his job no matter what form he’s in for his club.

“I haven’t watched much of his games this year. I know he’s copped a little bit of criticism but Nate’s someone who loves representing Queensland and would do his job no matter what.

“The job he does in the front row is very underrated.

“I certainly think he deserves to get a shot at proving himself again.”

Broncos prop Josh McGuire turned the heat up on Myles for a starting berth when he earned Kangaroos selection for the first time earlier this month.

Nate Myles has only missed one game since debuting for Queensland in 2006. Picture: Adam Head

McGuire will come off the bench to provide impact with the ball while Myles will be expected to provide stiff defence in the brutal opening exchanges.

Scott, who will line up for his 20th Origin, said no one was guaranteed a Queensland jumper but Myles’ record proved what he was capable of.

“You’re never really gifted the Origin jumper,” Scott said.

“Queensland has been great for showing loyalty in the past.

“To be on the cusp of 30 games is an unbelievable achievement.”

Originally published as Matt Scott backs Nate Myles to prove himself again for Queensland