Billy Slater has made the significant decision to remove Daly Cherry-Evans as captain of the Queensland Maroons for the upcoming Origin II clash in Perth, marking the first mid-series captaincy change since 1996. This decision follows the Maroons’ disappointing performance in Game One at Suncorp Stadium, which not only resulted in a loss but also denoted the team’s first consecutive defeats at that venue since 1998. Tom Dearden is set to take over the halfback position, signalling what could be Cherry-Evans’ last appearance in the Origin arena.
Cherry-Evans, who has been a consistent presence in the Origin series since 2018, was appointed captain in 2019, succeeding the legendary Greg Inglis. Coach Slater, speaking to Fox Sports, acknowledged the gravity of this choice, stating it is one of the most consequential decisions a coach has faced in Queensland rugby league for many years. He drew parallels with other significant player decisions, like New South Wales’ last year, reflecting on the weight of responsibility surrounding the move.
Historically, the last Maroons captain to be benched mid-series was Trevor Gillmeister, following a clean sweep in the 1995 series but experiencing setbacks in 1996. Coach Paul Vautin had then made sweeping changes, including bringing Slater onto the bench. The Maroons’ shift in strategy this time is closely being monitored, especially given the stakes involved in the competition. Walters expressed relief that he is not in a position to decide on Cherry-Evans’s future, highlighting the tough nature of the choice and the competing strategies at play.
He illustrated the dilemma: maintaining Cherry-Evans might lead to further losses and the end of their series hopes, whereas dropping him could rejuvenate the team’s chances in the subsequent matches. Walters emphasised the importance of Slater’s judgement in this critical moment, seeking to find the best path forward for the team’s success. As the Maroons prepare for the next game, the decisions ahead could redefine their tournament trajectory and Cherry-Evans’s role in Queensland rugby league history.