Storm coach Craig Bellamy has thrown his support behind Cameron Smith following a tumultuous few days for the embattled skipper.
Smith has had his character called into question ever since a media report aired on Sunday questioning his on-field actions in the immediate aftermath Alex McKinnon's injury.
The Melbourne and Maroons captain found away to overcome the enormous public pressure and lead Queensland to a record-breaking win over NSW on Wednesday night to clinch the State of Origin series.
Bellamy was left to watch not only the game but the media backlash unfold from back home but was left proud of the way Smith handled himself.
"I know it's been a tough couple of days for him and his family," Bellamy said.
"The Queenslanders and his teammates got behind him and really supported him.
"One thing I will say is that Cameron Smith is one of the most decent human beings I have ever been involved with. He is an ornament to our game and has been a great ambassador for our club, for Queensland and for rugby league in general.
"It (Sunday) was a tough time for him but I'm sure after last night (Wednesday) he is probably relieved the week is almost over… I'm sure at some stage Cameron will share his side of the story."
The club is yet to check in with Smith and their other Maroons stars Cooper Cronk and Will Chambers following what would have no doubt been robust celebration on Wednesday night.
That phone call is likely to be made after Wednesday's training session but early signs indicate all three players will be fit to travel to face the Warriors on Sunday.
It is a crunch game for the Storm who are looking to overcome a run of three straight defeats for the first time since mid-2012.
Bellamy hopes the week off gave his side a chance to turn over a new leaf.
"We've had a little bit of a break now and have freshened up a bit because I think a few of our younger players we a little bit tired," he said.
"They weren't used to playing as much NRL as they had been playing. We gave them four days off so hopefully that helps freshen them up not only in the body but in the mind as well so hopefully we can go over there and put in a good performance."
Melbourne take on New Zealand at Mt Smart Stadium this Sunday at 2pm.
