NSW Blues powerhouse Payne Haas doesn’t want to be anywhere else in the world but Accor Stadium on Wednesday night when the 24-year-old runs out for his state against Queensland in State of Origin I.

Haas’ father was recently arrested in the Philippines on drug smuggling charges and faces the death penalty while his mother is still locked away in Brisbane waiting for sentencing after a fatal car accident that killed several people.

“I want to be here,” Haas said.

“This is what you want to do and why you play rugby league growing up, you want to play State of Origin.

“It never crossed my mind not playing. I’m just privileged and blessed that I get to do that now.”

Haas will partner new Blues skipper Jake Trbojevic in the front-row.