Jacob Gagai never gave up hope that his brother would fight his way back into the Queensland side. With career-best form, Dane has been recalled for next week’s State of Origin decider and will be expected to bring the aggressiveness on the flanks that the Maroons have sorely lacked in this series.
Now 33, Dane has been in outstanding form for the Knights, with the veteran centre scoring twice in their spirited win over the Raiders last week to secure his place in Billy Slater’s team.
It seemed his Origin career was over after he was passed over last year and although they won without him, there is no doubt the Maroons missed his toughness.
The 22-match veteran has been brought in to face Newcastle teammate Bradman Best as the Maroons look to bounce back after being intimidated by the Blues in Melbourne.
“He did so much in the Origin game that I thought he might come back,” Jacob said.
“To be honest, after what we saw last year and the form he has shown this year, I told him the other day that I think he is in the best shape of his career.
“He definitely deserves to be back in the Queensland jersey and I can’t wait to see him play.
“He was a little disappointed (that he wasn’t selected last year) considering what Queensland means to us and our family.
“Any Queenslander or NSW person would love to play in this arena, so it’s great to see him back.”
Dane has always given it his all when he has pulled on the Queensland jersey. The tricky fullback has scored 12 tries in his career and was the first winger to win the prestigious Wally Lewis Medal as player of the series in 2017.
It is one of two special memories that have stuck in his younger brother’s mind: Jacob flying to Brisbane to watch Dane in what could be his final Origin appearance.
“It was great to be there for his debut,” he said.
“I remember him singing the national anthem and they were all standing in a line in front of the families. He looked our family in the eyes and our eyes met and I remember that moment with him that brought a little tear to my eyes because I knew how far he had come.
“To see him make history as the only winger to win the Wally Lewis Medal (was amazing). Those are two very special memories for me.”
Jacob, 28, has had a very different career and has had to work hard to get a chance in the NRL, where he scored on his debut in Las Vegas this year and was a shining example on the wing for Souths.
“He’s stuck with it and stuck with it and stuck with it. He’s been given his chance and he’s reaping the rewards of his labour at the moment,” South Sydney star Cody Walker said of his younger teammate, who worked hard in the reserve grade for years.
“The beauty of Jacob’s form at the moment is not the ability to score tries, which we all see, but the effort and desire to try and prevent them.
“He’s worked extremely hard over the past few years to get a chance and I’m really happy for him because I’ve spent quite a bit of time with him.”