Rookie Queensland coach Billy Slater has announced that no player’s position is guaranteed for the upcoming State of Origin opener. Despite the strong form of star players such as Cameron Munster and Daly Cherry-Evans, Slater emphasized that nobody is assured a spot for the game on June 8.
Storm hooker Harry Grant has also been performing well, while Titans’ powerhouse David Fifita has shown inconsistent form throughout 2022. Newcastle’s struggles, marked by four consecutive losses, might jeopardize the chances of Knights duo Kalyn Ponga and Dane Gagai, although they would be unfortunate to miss out.
Slater made his stance clear in an interview with News Corp, stating, “There are no positions locked in. I’m really enjoying what some of our more experienced Origin players have been doing on the field, but there are also other players in those positions playing very good football.”
He further expressed his pleasure in watching all Queensland players perform, emphasizing that he hasn’t finalized any decisions. “Locking people away in positions isn’t something I’ve been doing. Many decisions are beyond your control come selection time. You might have a wish list, but until 6 pm on Sunday, May 29, you don’t have all your cards on the table,” Slater explained.
Ultimately, Slater believes that the players themselves will determine who will represent Queensland. “Their actions will show me and the selectors whether they deserve and want to be there. If they earn a jersey on June 8, it will be because they’ve earned it.”
This week, teenage sensation Jeremiah Nanai committed to the Maroons over New Zealand, and his Cowboys teammate Tom Dearden, who boasts the second-most try assists in the NRL this season, has also impressed. Raiders’ teenager Xavier Savage has caught Slater’s attention, with Slater having contacted him over the summer to discuss Origin prospects.
Slater also acknowledged other emerging talents, saying, “Sam Walker has been great, Tom Dearden has had a really good start to the season, and even Toby Sexton has done some nice things at the Gold Coast.”
The rookie coach is preparing to manage a dynamic situation, anticipating a squad size of around 20-22 players, given the unpredictable nature of player availability. “Watching how things are unfolding with players pulling out of NRL games, it can change really quickly,” Slater noted.
In essence, Slater’s approach emphasizes merit and current performance over past reputation, aiming to build a team based on recent form and the players’ desire to earn their place through consistent, outstanding play. This philosophy could lead to a competitive selection process, where established stars and rising talents alike vie for the coveted Queensland jersey.
