NSW hooker Damien Cook says this year's State of Origin series win can be traced to the inspiration of former captain Boyd Cordner.
Forced to announced his retirement from rugby league earlier this month after ongoing issues with concussion, Cordner joined the Blues before Sunday's game two during their camp in Kingscliff.
Cordner was honoured by the Blues with his number stitched into each jersey as NSW took an unassailable 2-0 lead with a 26-0 victory at Suncorp Stadium - the first time in Origin history the Maroons have been held scoreless in Brisbane.
"It was massive to have Boyd in camp. He's retired but he put his body on the line for this game and for this jersey as well," Cook said.
"Everyone had his number stitched on the front of the jersey. We were playing for Boyd out there as well.
"Everything he's done. Just the courage that he played with in this jersey, everyone had to take a little leaf out of his book and do that ... this is a big series win for Boyd, especially."
Cook also hailed the influence of the Blues' newcomers this year, with Penrith pair Brian To'o and Jarome Luai playing without the scars of past defeats to the Maroons.
"Brian's doing a great job, out of our end, in our yardage sets he's been unbelievable for us in the first two games," Cook said.
"Then Jarome's picking those moments as well. He's got some great players outside him but he's not over playing his hand and doing a great job.
"They're just playing without fear at the moment, a lot of confidence, and it's a big reason why we've won the series in two games."
