Awkward hotel run-ins as McGregor settles into halves

Corban McGregor is used to sharing a hotel with opponents, but this year's predicament has left the NSW star slightly uneasy ahead of the showdown with Queensland.

The NSW side arrived on the Sunshine Coast last week ahead of their interstate clash on November 13 to undergo a 14-day quarantine, where they can still train as a side at the Twin Waters resort.

The only problem for the Blues is that the Maroons, gunning for a first win in five years, are staying at the same place, with several Queensland players also under the same 14-day restrictions.

It's a similar notion being carried out in the women's Big Bash League with eight sides featuring some of the world's best cricketers staying in a hub-style format at Sydney Olympic Park.

NSW players and coaching staff have their own team room and dedicated level where they sleep and can use gym equipment but occasionally bump into their Queensland rivals, who have the same set-up only metres away. 

"It was a little bit awkward at the start," McGregor told NRL.com.

"It's hard because we're mates with a lot of them and play alongside each other throughout the year but at the moment we should probably hate each other.

"It sort of ruins the momentum and suspense as you're so used to only seeing them on game day. We just stay respectful so everyone is handling it well.

"The only time we really cross paths is if we're walking from our room to team room or outside for a walk."

We just stay respectful so everyone is handling it well

Corban McGregor on coming across Maroons opponents

Both sides have been able to train at Sunshine Coast Stadium ahead of next week's clash, where close to 6000 tickets have been sold.

NSW have enjoyed a vocal home crowd advantage in recent times but will have the added challenge of looking to silence the pro-Queensland atmosphere with a performance on the scoreboard.

"It's a challenge but we've seen it as an opportunity and something new," McGregor said.

"From what we've seen it's a good stadium, I like that it's not too big and the hills make it feel like Shark Park [in Cronulla]. Hopefully, we can pack it out as it's got a good vibe.

"We're always expecting a tough match but they've got some great additions this year with some form players backing up from the Broncos and making their Origin debut."

After starring at fullback in last year's match, McGregor is likely to occupy the five-eighth role alongside Roosters teammate Mel Howard, who will make her Origin debut.

The Maroons are expected to throw plenty of traffic towards Howard, who got the nod over Maddie Studdon for the all-important No.7 jersey.

"Howie is really good at dictating and management so hopefully I can soak up as much off her in the next week and add my style as well," McGregor said.

"I'm sure she is a target, just like any halves would be in a game especially defensively, but I think she'll handle it well.

"I've been going in and out of the halves and working with the outside backs for this year.

"I think there are some good combinations within the team, it's just a matter of tying down a few things with execution."

NSW captain Kezie Apps (knee) and star centre Isabelle Kelly (ankle) remain on track to play in a boost for the defending champions.