Cooper Cronk's recovery from a broken arm is an inspiration to the entire Queensland squad, teammate Greg Inglis says.
Cronk's amazing return to Queensland's line-up for next week's State of Origin finale is all but assured after the halfback completed an opposed session against a Queensland Cup team on the Gold Coast.
With nothing more than strapping over the wrist of the arm he broke in the series opener on May 28, Cronk showed no signs of discomfort in Friday's session.
The halfback took part in both attacking and defensive drills against the Tweed Heads Seagulls, showing to all who could see he has made a remarkable five-week recovery from an injury that was supposed to sideline him for at least another month.
It's such a speedy recovery it leaves your head in a spin, that is unless you're Inglis.
The ex-Melbourne Storm player has seen enough of Cronk behind the scenes to not be surprised by his healing abilities.
"The way Cooper is, I know he does everything down to the T'," Inglis said.
"It doesn't surprise me how quick he's recovered because he would have looked at every thing, every different option, to make himself available.
"He won't be taking the field unless he's 100 per cent.
"I know he has no doubt in his mind about playing."
As the Maroons battle to avoid a series whitewash and with debutant winger Will Chambers dealing with an ongoing police investigation into assault allegations, Cronk's return is proving inspirational.
Inglis says the team will not only benefit from having Cronk's abilities on the field but his dedication to want to return to the Maroons line-up should serve as a reminder to his teammates just how important next week's match is.
"It does show the character Cooper is," Inglis said.
"Having him around the team, around the camp, you can see what the bloke is all about."
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