“He’s got similar characteristics to Harry, similar kind of upbringing, same areas,” Horsburgh said.

“I’m not surprised [how well he’s gone] – he works hard, the little fella.”

A Queensland defeat in Perth on Wednesday night would deliver New South Wales back-to-back State of Origin series triumphs, and pose questions for where the future of the Maroons is placed.

The axe has already fallen on halfback and skipper Daly Cherry-Evans, with Tom Dearden handed the No.7 jumper to represent the first phase in the changing of the guard.

While a loss would inevitably prompt talk of mass team changes, the question will remain who Queensland have at their disposal who would be ready to stand up.

Melbourne Storm centre Jack Howarth looms as an option, with Maroons veteran Valentine Holmes admitting Cherry-Evans’ demotion had signalled a reality check to the state’s more seasoned campaigners.

The 22-year-old Howarth – who has averaged 132 running metres a game while making five try-assists this year – was reportedly nearing an Origin call-up ahead of game one before suffering a dislocated shoulder, with Roosters rookie Robert Toia instead debuting in impressive fashion.

“At that point, I was pretty happy with how I was playing, and I strung a good few games together. It was just unfortunate it happened, but it is what it is,” Howarth, who has been named as Queensland’s 19th man, said of his injury.

“I believe everything happens for a reason, so maybe it wasn’t my time to play. Hopefully going into the future I get that opportunity again and am ready to take it.”

Howarth’s past as an edge forward presents a point of flexibility which could launch his own ascent to rugby league’s greatest stage, having honed his craft under the gruelling regimen of master coach Craig Bellamy.

“He’s made me realise the importance of working hard in consistency. He’ll tell me when I’m playing good and tell me when I’m playing bad, so it helps me stick to my routine,” Howarth said.

“The last thing I want from him is a spray. I don’t know if he’s put fear in me, but at the end of the day … the proof is in the pudding.”