Queensland prop Shane Webcke has warned teammates to expect something "pretty special" from rookie Brett Finch, thrust into the NSW State of Origin side as sixth choice halfback.

Finch will play Wednesday's second Origin game in enemy territory with just two training sessions with the Blues' and knowing he rates sixth in the selectors' pecking order.

With champion Andrew Johns and first game halfback Craig Gower both unavailable, NSW selectors handed the Origin No.7 jumper to Brett Kimmorley last week.

But when he broke down with a hamstring tear and when both Trent Barrett and Matt Orford were ruled out with injuries, Finch was finally confirmed as Kimmorley's replacement.

Webcke said while it may appear NSW had suffered a blow, often bringing players into a team late could have the opposite affect.

"The truth is you always worry a little when they bring in a player," said the world's best prop.

"It's been said Finchy is the fourth or fifth choice at halfback and people will read that whichever way they want.

"(But) players, once they are under that kind of pressure can tend to produce something pretty special and that could be the case with him."

Webcke said Finch's selection further enhanced the Roosters connection with Brad Fittler back playing five-eighth and Anthony Minichiello chiming in from fullback.

"They obviously play very well together. They haven't lost a lot and they've gained a little bit of that unknown quantity that can be quite dangerous," he said.

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