No other forward has played as many Tests or State of Origin matches as the Fijian-born Queensland giant, Peter Civoniceva.

Civoniceva made his debut for the Maroons when they defeated the Blues 2-1 in 2001 and he has been one of the pillars in the front row ever since in 30 appearances for his state.His front row partner Mark Scott says he is honoured to be packing down with Civoniceva in his final series, highlighting the influence the 36-year-old has had on some of the younger members of the Maroons squad.

At age 36 and in his last season, he knows the axe may well fall on his illustrious Origin career if the smaller, more mobile New South Wales pack get the upper hand and the Blues pull off an upset at Melbourne's Docklands to grab a 1-0 series lead.

"You live by the sword and I've put myself on the line again to go (around) one more time," said Civoniceva, as he prepared for his 31st Origin match.

Civoniceva is no different to any player - he fears being axed.

Before the second match of the 2006 series, Civoniceva and Darren Lockyer were told their Origin futures were on the line with the Blues threatening to take a record fourth straight series after winning the opening match 17-16 despite the Maroons holding a big lead early. The turnaround then is etched in history with the Maroons going on to win six straight series. "There was doubt over the careers of Locky (Darren Lockyer), Steve Price and myself in 2006," Civoniceva said.

"I'm just so grateful we were able to build something from there and I've been able to remain in the team."

So too are coach Mal Meninga and his Maroons team-mates who regard Civoniceva as the rock on which many of their great victories over the Blues have been built. Tough back-rower Nate Myles loves having Civoniceva around. He is not surprised that, even in the intensity of Origin, no player had taken a swing at the 110-kilogram Civoniceva during his 30 Queensland appearances.

"I don't think anyone will replace what Petero means to Queensland on or off the field."