League: Thorn and Berrigan like rookies for State of Origin

Brad Thorn and Shaun Berrigan admit they feel like rookies again preparing for their Queensland comebacks against New South Wales on Wednesday night.

Thorn, who will play his first Origin in five years after becoming a dual international, said he was expecting Origin No 9 to be even tougher than when he left league at the end of 2000 to pursue a rugby career in New Zealand.

He played for the All Blacks at the 2003 World Cup.

Berrigan - on the verge of playing halfback last year before being injured - returns this time as an established test centre, but also feeling like an Origin newcomer after missing last year's 2-1 series loss.

"I didn't play last year and it feels like I'm starting my Origin career all over again," said Berrigan, expecting to have the defensive assignment on Blues' dangerman Mark Gasnier.

"When you miss a whole series it seems to have that affect on you."

If missing one series has had that effect on Berrigan, what impact has five years away from Origin done to Thorn?

"Origin seems to have become more skilled and faster every year," said Thorn, who has been in terrific form for Brisbane.

"I feel a bit like a rookie again.

"I've got to get through that first 10 minutes and I'll know what it's all about, I'm sure.

"I'm expecting it to be tough and fast, and I'm pretty excited about it."

Thorn, who has trimmed down to 114kg, will complete a remarkable journey on Wednesday night after having walked away from league to chase his childhood goal of playing for the All Blacks.

In nine games back with Brisbane he has rediscovered his best form and his considerable bulk will compliment the go-forward games of team-mates Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva.

Thorn has played in a series win when Queensland retained the Origin in 1999 with a third game 10-10 draw.

But in his seven other Origins he's had to settle for seven losses.

"That's not a great record, is it?" he said with a smile. "I've had success in other areas like club footy and playing tests but apart from the draw I haven't tasted Origin success."