Addin Fonua-Blake, the imposing Cronulla Sharks prop, is playing a masterclass in keeping his eye on the ball – and the ball is firmly in the Shire. While the allure of the State of Origin arena, and specifically the Queensland Maroons, might be a dazzling prospect for many, Fonua-Blake is resolutely focused on his current club commitments. He’s not lying awake at night strategising against the Maroons; instead, his mind is occupied with the blue and white of the Sharks.
This season presents Fonua-Blake with a unique opportunity. A recent adjustment to the State of Origin eligibility rules has opened the door for him to represent New South Wales, a pathway previously blocked by his strong New Zealand heritage. However, the big man is keeping his feet firmly planted on the ground, prioritising his performances for the Sharks.
“My full focus is on how I play and what I am doing for the Sharks,” Fonua-Blake stated during a media session on Tuesday. “I know if I am playing well, then I could put myself in a position to get a call. If I don’t, well then I’ll just keep working hard and worrying about myself.”
Despite his grounded approach, the passion for the sky-blue jersey is undeniably present. When questioned about any lingering thoughts of Queensland, Fonua-Blake’s demeanour shifts, a subtle grin barely contained.
“I don’t think about Queensland too much,” he admitted with a chuckle. “When I am at home, I think about my family. When I am in here (at Cronulla), I think about the Sharks. If I get a call, then I will start thinking about Queensland.”
Should that call from the New South Wales selectors materialise, Fonua-Blake expressed profound gratitude and an unwavering commitment to seize the moment. “If I am lucky or blessed enough to get a call on the day, then I will take that opportunity with both hands,” he declared. “I am definitely passionate (about the Sky Blue jersey). I will put my heart into the job.”
Sharks’ Rocky Start and Fonua-Blake’s Resolve
In the cut-throat world of the NRL, Fonua-Blake hasn’t quite reached the destructive, game-changing heights that have cemented his reputation as one of the competition’s premier forwards. This season, he acknowledges, has presented challenges, and he feels he has a point to prove before any potential Origin call-up.
Currently, his priority is to help steer the Cronulla Sharks out of a sluggish start to the year, both for the team and for himself individually. There’s no hint of panic in his voice; it’s a familiar narrative he’s experienced before.
“I feel like we have strayed away from our brand of footy,” Fonua-Blake explained. “We’ve been punished twice now, so we have to prepare well and get ready to go again.”
He remains optimistic about the team’s potential, drawing parallels to their previous season. “It is not ideal the way we have started the year, but it is also not the end of the comp. If we can get our act together and start playing our brand of footy again, we should string together a few good wins and be sitting where we want to be.”
Fonua-Blake’s confidence in his teammates is evident. “We were in a similar position last year, and we pulled ourselves out of it. I have full belief in the squad that once we start getting things right… the wins won’t be far away.”
Looking Ahead: Raiders Rematch and Club Aspirations
The Sharks are set to face the Canberra Raiders this Sunday in a crucial rematch, harking back to a significant semi-final encounter. For the club, this game represents more than just two competition points; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate their ambition and commitment to elevation.
“We are striving to get to the next level,” Fonua-Blake affirmed, underscoring the team’s desire to build momentum and solidify their position as genuine contenders. The focus remains on executing their game plan, rediscovering their winning formula, and ultimately, silencing any doubts about their capabilities in the tough NRL landscape.
Fonua-Blake’s approach is a clear indication of a player who understands the importance of club before representative honours. By focusing on his current duties and striving for peak performance with the Sharks, he is, in essence, doing everything he can to earn that coveted sky-blue jersey. The opportunity might be there, but for now, the Sharks are his sole obsession.
