While the transition between generations of Queensland State of Origin stars appears seamless, former great Darren Lockyer is warning there's still plenty to do to ensure the Maroons' era of success continues.
Queensland blooded eight new players and used a record 26 players through this year's Origin series and still got the better of the Blues.
That's one player more than the Maroons had previously ever used.
Lockyer said future success needed to be built on more than just the likes of the freakish talent of debutant playmaker Cameron Munster.
They will be without Johnathan Thurston next year and possibly Cooper Cronk and Billy Slater, who are still to decide on their playing futures.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"I think the key is the transition of the ageing champions that we have," said Lockyer, who is also a Queensland selector.
"You're never going to replace them but we need to be as well prepared as we can, and bringing some talented players into the system is great but we also need to create some leaders as well.
"The next couple of years will be about getting those talented players who can be there for the next decade and improving their leadership qualities."
Lockyer admitted he thought Queensland could be in for a little more painin the 2017 series - particularly with the Maroons shell-shocked with the 28-4 scoreline in the opening match.
"The transition phase has been highlighted for a couple of years now and game one was the time to pull the trigger and make it happen.
"We were prepared for some short-term pain but this year through maybe a bit of luck and some good performances that transition's been seamless but there's still a long way to go."
