Lang Park used to be the most feared ground for visiting teams in rugby league, now it is the most loved.

Renamed Suncorp Stadium after redevelopment in 2003, the Brisbane ground is now a favourite for visiting NSW State of Origin players and NRL clubs who simply adore the "electric" atmosphere of playing in front of its screaming supporters - or "rednecks" if you take Willie Mason's description.

"I think it's one of the best grounds to play at in Australia, if not the world," said NSW fullback Brett Stewart.

"The crowd is so close and the atmosphere is electric all the time.

"I prefer to play at a packed house."

In its heyday Lang Park was a fearsome place for anyone wearing sky blue, with supporters so close and only a wire fence separating players from fans with full cans of XXXX beer.

The stadium seating has retained its proximity to the players since being upgraded and NSW centre Matt Cooper says it creates an atmosphere that now inspires rather than intimidates.

The proof of this was in 2003 when the Brisbane Broncos won just one of their home games at the new venue as visiting teams lifted for the occasion of playing at the ground.

"Every Origin I have played there the atmosphere has been great and even though they're booing us it's still great," said Cooper.

"I can't fault it. I know personally that I love playing there.

"It's just one of those grounds where the atmosphere is unbelievable. I have never played in a game where the atmosphere has been bigger than that in Origin and especially when they run out, it's crazy."

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