Haumole Olakau'atu feels the door hasn't been shut on his hopes to play for NSW in the State of Origin series decider.
The 27-year-old back rower broke his silence on being demoted to the extended bench for Origin game two at the MCG after playing his usual strong part for Manly in a nail-biting 13-12 loss to the Bulldogs on Saturday night.
The Tonga international acknowledged the pressure he'd been under due to his change in fortunes with NSW, relegated from the starting 13 for game one to jersey No.20.
"I think I've handled it pretty well," Olakau'atu said. "I tried not to dwell on it too much.
"It was a really enjoyable week despite the score on Wednesday night," he said, referring to the shattering 44-24 Queensland victory.
