Sports - AFL
McCluggage Earns Spot in Victoria’s State of Origin Squad
Hugh McCluggage has secured a place in Victoria’s State of Origin midfield as the historic contest returns in February.
Brisbane midfielder Hugh McCluggage said he had not assumed he would be selected for Victoria's State of Origin side despite his All Australian credentials, and was pleased to learn this week that he would be part of the squad to face Western Australia at Optus Stadium on 14 February.
The two time premiership player said competition for spots in Victoria's midfield was strong.
The current group also includes Gold Coast pair Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson, Geelong runner Max Holmes, Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli and Port Adelaide's Zak Butters.
McCluggage said he felt privileged to be picked and looked forward to lining up alongside such talent.
He said the return of Origin football after a long absence added an element of intrigue, and that the Victorian squad would hope to help reignite public interest in the concept.
Among his opponents will be Lions teammate Charlie Cameron.
Cameron was born in Queensland, although he moved to Western Australia at 17 and played for Swan Districts before entering the AFL system.
McCluggage said Cameron's selection for WA was likely to excite local supporters given his high energy style, and he hoped he would not be matched too closely against him due to Cameron's superior pace.
McCluggage said Cameron had been performing strongly in the pre season and expected him to have a big year.
He also praised Brisbane's two major off season recruits, ruckman Sam Draper from Essendon and former West Coast captain Oscar Allen.
He said both had settled quickly and embraced the club's culture.
Draper, known for his long hair and outgoing personality, could become a cult figure among Lions fans according to McCluggage.
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