Smith counting down to Melbourne's Origin blockbuster

64 days.

The countdown is well and truly on until Melburnians pack out the MCG for Game I of the 2018 State of Origin series.

Three years after more than 90,000 fans flocked to the sporting colosseum, it promises to be yet another unforgettable blockbuster when Queensland and New South Wales renew arguably Australian sport’s most fierce rivalry.

Centre stage will be Melbourne Storm and Queensland Maroons skipper Cameron Smith who cannot wait to play in the spectacle in his own backyard.

“It just invites more people to watch the spectacle of rugby league,” Smith said.

“From where it was when I first started my career in 2002 to now, there is so much more awareness of our game, (Melburnians) are educated on our sport and even know who the interstate players are.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to play at some brilliant grounds around the world such as Wembley, Old Trafford, some wonderful venues with great history but I don’t think it gets much better than the MCG. 

“The last time we played there in 2015 we played in front of 93,000 people, which is a State of Origin record I believe. I’d like to think we’d get a few more in there this time.”