The 30-year-old might have been forgiven for thinking his Origin opportunity had passed, but he’s been in outstanding form for a struggling Warriors side this season.
The ex-Knights enforcer will join Bradman Best – recalled for the injured Latrell Mitchell – as the two changes from the NSW team which demolished Queensland in game two at the MCG. The Blues are trying to win their first series decider at Suncorp Stadium since 2005.
Asked how hard it was to leave the Knights for the Warriors, Barnett said: “Extremely tough. But I needed it. I knew I needed it and I just didn’t want to leave. The fans were so good to me there, my family was comfortable there … it was hard.
“I’ve got so many good mates there I played with, and schoolmates, it was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever made. But I’m so glad I did. I’m here today because of it.
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“I’ve got a good group of boys around me at the Warriors and a coach [Andrew Webster] that believes in me. A lot of things have changed, and I know I was injured last year, but this year I’ve had a bit of luck with injury, touch wood. Things have fallen into place for me.”
Barnett will join a bench including Isaah Yeo, Spencer Leniu and Connor Watson in Brisbane, with Maguire to have the option of using the veteran either in the middle or on an edge for Angus Crichton or Liam Martin if they require a break.
“Playing on the edge is a lot of my career and it’s only recently I’ve moved into the front row,” Barnett said.
“My versatility, I’ve pretty much done that since I came into the NRL. Having a lot of knowledge around the positions [helps]. I’ve got a good group around me at the Warriors that helps me slot into them.”