Pumped for the final

Sunday's Four Nations final is a momentous occasion for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, is the need for Australia to get back on top of the rugby league world.

As a team we have been very dominant in 2011, but that is not unlike previous years. The big difference, and the elephant in our dressing room, has been our performances in finals. Gut-wrenching losses against New Zealand in the 2008 World Cup and 2010 Four Nations deciders are still difficult to think about.

FAREWELL LOCKY

The second reason our game against England will be one for the history books is because fulltime will signal the end of Darren Lockyer's remarkable career.

Seventeen years playing professional rugby league at the highest level, including over 350 first grade games, 38 games for Queensland and a world record 59 Test matches, will be almost impossible to emulate. Throw in multiple Premierships, State of Origin Series victories, World Cup trophies and an individual accolade list longer than your arm, and it's difficult to imagine another player coming around like him again.

For me though, the best thing about Locky is the guy off the field. His humility, the simple way he goes about things day to day.

You'd think after all of his successes, the guy might have the tiniest of chips on his shoulder, but he is totally unaffected. From the first day I met him until now, he's been the same ... quiet, funny, hard-working and very humble.

THE FINAL

Our contest at Wembley a few weeks ago showed there is little between England and Australia they deserve to be in this final and pose a genuine threat for us.

Both of our teams have strong go-forward, dynamic backlines and a great mix of youth and experience. Perhaps we have slightly more depth in our overall squad, but that won't make too much difference once the final 17 are chosen.

Tim Sheens named a 21-man squad earlier this week, I think in an effort to keep their side guessing, but also to ensure all of our boys are on their toes. He's been shrewd and very meticulous throughout this tour, both staples of his, and I think we have benefited from that.

Whoever is chosen in our final cut will know their role for Sunday. There won't be any second guessing or surprises .... everyone is ready is rip in.

COMING HOME

Looking back over the past six weeks, the new boys have all come in and made a fantastic impression, giving some of us old timers new energy.

As a squad we have got on famously as well, even with the intense New South Wales/Queensland rivalry, which is a testament to how focussed the playing group is.

I haven't thought beyond this game too much, but I can tell you that I'm really looking forward to returning home and seeing my wife and kids. It's been a long and arduous year with many ups and downs, which is why I'm so keen to finish on top.

Hopefully I'll be on that plane next week with no regrets, a big smile on my face and a shiny Four Nations trophy not far away.