NSW halfback Brett Finch pleaded with Blues selectors to give veteran Brad Fittler the chance to end his representative career on a winning note.

Fittler made his return to the State of Origin arena after a three-year absence but sadly for the champion five-eighth, NSW went down 22-18 in a thrilling match at Suncorp Stadium to level the series 1-all.

The 32-year-old Sydney Roosters star was non-committal after the game about whether he would declare himself available for Origin III in Sydney on July 7.

"I've got no idea," said Fittler when asked whether he would play his 31st Origin in front of a home crowd.

"It's three weeks away so I've got plenty of time. Anything can happen between now and then."

Finch had no doubt his club team-mate deserved to go out a winner after being denied the opportunity in 2001 when Queensland smashed the Blues at ANZ Stadium to clinch the series.

"Damn right he should," said Finch, who debuted for the Blues.

"He's a legend that deserves a proper farewell.

"I thought he was great again tonight. He's a champion who rarely turns in a bad performance.

"I'd love to see him go around in game three. I think we'll see him there."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP