He finally got his man but it didn't stop Queensland coach Kevin Walters having a parting shot at NRL mentor Paul Green over Coen Hess' Maroons selection.
Walters didn't hide his annoyance at Green after confirming 20-year-old powerhouse Hess would make his Origin debut in Queensland's must win game two clash with NSW on June 21.
Only a week ago Hess' North Queensland coach Green had asked Maroons selectors to overlook the barnstorming backrower, saying he wasn't ready to take the step up.
Green claimed Hess - who has played just 22 NRL games - could be "scarred" if blooded at Origin too early.
But asked on Monday whether Hess was ready for Origin, Walters snapped: "The whole rugby league world knows Coen Hess is ready."
Walters didn't exactly clear the air with Green before naming Hess in his game two team either.
"I think Paul would prefer he wasn't in the side so we didn't ask Greeny about him," Walters said.
Queensland chairman of selectors Gene Miles said he could understand Green's stance.
"Greeny is just being a selfish NRL coach and if I was in his position I would do exactly the same thing," he said.
"They are just in the eight at the moment so it's an important time for them.
"But I am sure he will be very proud of him when he runs out on Wednesday week."
Hess was one of four debutants and among seven changes to the Queensland team unveiled by Walters for game two.
The last time Queensland had made six or seven changes to their 17 was back in game two, 2002.
Hess has been a revelation for the Cowboys this year, scoring 10 tries to date.
Hess was earmarked for Origin duty after being invited to the 2017 Emerging Maroons camp however his stellar rise this season prompted caution from Green.
Walters had no second thoughts about Hess.
"It's a good opportunity for him," he said.
"He's only a young fella. He hasn't played a lot of first grade.
"But we feel he is the best option for us. He will bring some size and power to our team."
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