With the Origin decider looming in Sydney next Wednesday, Laurie Daley and the NSW selectors must focus on form when selecting the Blues team. So far in the series, the Blues have been underwhelming; their first game was marked by an unconvincing performance against a self-defeating Queensland squad. In the follow-up, the Blues faced the consequences of their lack of discipline, failing to overcome an energised Queensland team despite a strong finish and unfavourable penalty counts.
Changes are crucial for NSW to avoid losing the series. One significant requirement is to find a hooker who can hold his own against Queensland’s Harry Grant, who rebounded from a poor first game with a stellar performance in Perth. While Reece Robson is reliable defensively, he lacks Grant’s agility from dummy half. Veteran Api Koroisau, on the other hand, possesses the skill and speed needed to challenge Grant effectively. Despite questions surrounding his defence, Koroisau has performed remarkably in a struggling team, recently topping his side’s tackle count.
The Blues have also struggled in the forward pack, lacking intimidation. A proposed dual change could see South Sydney’s powerhouse Keaon Koloamatangi elevate the team’s front line, alongside Terrell May from the Wests Tigers. Queensland effectively dealt with Max King and Stefano Utoikamanu in their forward exchanges, which underscores the need for NSW to inject some aggression into their ranks. Koloamatangi’s impressive form, demonstrated by a standout performance where he ran for 232 metres, should have secured him a selection place.
In contrast, King put up underwhelming numbers against Queensland. While he is a competent first grader, he lacks the impact required at Origin level. Pairing Koloamatangi with the powerful Payne Haas could be the game-changer the Blues need against Queensland’s defence.
Although Utoikamanu’s inclusion remains perplexing given his minimal contributions in Perth, May’s energy off the bench could disrupt Queensland’s rhythm. Despite uncertainties about his selection, he is the type of player who could switch the momentum during the game.
The backline showed promise in the latter part of the last game, but the team’s success hinges on Nathan Cleary’s fitness. Assuming he recovers, the following lineup is suggested for the closing match of the series:
1. Dylan Edwards
2. Brian To’o
3. Stephen Crichton
4. Latrell Mitchell
5. Zac Lomax
6. Jarome Luai
7. Nathan Cleary
8. Keaon Koloamatangi
9. Api Koroisau
10. Payne Haas
11. Liam Martin
12. Angus Crichton
13. Isaah Yeo
14. Connor Watson
15. Spencer Leniu
16. Hudson Young
17. Terrell May
The time has come for NSW to make bold decisions to reclaim their dominance in this fierce rivalry.