Ben Elias was one of the greatest hookers to ever lace up a boot, a Balmain Tigers veteran that played 234 games for the club, as well as 19 games for the NSW Blues.
He was captain in six of those games from 1990-91, winning three of the six games and subsequently one of the two series.
He also scored a famous try in Game II of the 1985 series at the Sydney Cricket Ground, darting out from dummy half to score in what was the clinching-match for the Blues first ever State of Origin series victory.
Elias played with his heart on his sleeve, and was known for having ferocious battles with Kerrod and Steve Walkers during Origin, and of course with Mario Fenech at club level.
In 2000, Elias was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his contribution to Rugby League at an international level, and in 2005 was named one of the 25 greatest ever NSW players.
Post-retirement, Elias graduated from the University of Western Sydney and became one of Australia’s retail mobile phone sales pioneers, and began radio commentating on Rugby League in Sydney.
Elias was one of the toughest men to ever don the sky-blue jumper, and will always be known as one of the greatest players to grace the game of Rugby League.
Farewell one of our greatest Origin captains, Paul Gallen, by being a part of The Star-backed Blatchys Blues for Origin III. Click here to purchase tickets and to secure a seat to witness history. Don’t forget, for all the latest on the VB Blues and State of Origin, download the official NSWRL app and make www.NSWRL.com.au your homepage.
