Ben Hunt is under mounting pressure to retain his position in the Queensland team ahead of the upcoming State of Origin opener. After returning to the Brisbane Broncos this season from a tumultuous stint at the Dragons, where he often faced challenges in delivering consistent results, Hunt has shown flashes of brilliance during his initial games. However, his recent performances, particularly in defeats to the Warriors and Panthers, have sparked concerns about his future.
While the 35-year-old has been versatile, playing both hooker and bench utility roles under coach Billy Slater, his time in these positions may soon come to an end. Former teammate Corey Parker has highlighted that the emergence of Tom Dearden poses a significant challenge for Hunt. Parker stated on SEN Radio that despite Hunt’s longstanding role as a No. 14, he believes Dearden should take that spot for the upcoming match.
Dearden’s performance as five-eighth in last year’s Origin series, coupled with Cameron Munster’s anticipated return, raises doubts about Dearden maintaining his No. 6 position. Over the years, Queensland has successfully utilised players in the bench utility role, a strategy that has proven effective during the intense contests of Origin football.
With Queensland’s backline and forward pack also facing tough selection decisions, Parker has identified a few rising stars. He suggested that Corey Horsburgh’s consistent performance could earn him a starting position alongside Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, while back-rowers Jeremiah Nanai and Jaydn Su’A are believed to be contenders for starting spots given their recent form.
Parker anticipates exciting additions to the team, with the return of Fa’asuamaleaui being particularly noteworthy. He commended Horsburgh for his reliability on the field and praised Nanai for returning to top form after a stint in reserve grade, while noting Su’A’s aggression as an asset.
Additionally, Parker has proposed that Titans’ Beau Fermor deserves a chance to debut for Queensland, despite his club’s challenges this season.
In summary, Parker’s vision for the Maroons consists of:
- Kalyn Ponga
- Xavier Coates
- Valentine Holmes
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Selwyn Cobbo
- Cameron Munster
- Daly Cherry-Evans
- Corey Horsburgh
- Harry Grant
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Jeremiah Nanai
- Jaydn Su’A
- Patrick Carrigan
- Tom Dearden
- Tom Gilbert
- Beau Fermor
- Reuben Cotter
Reserves: Ben Hunt, Jaxon Purdue.
Hunt’s place in the squad may hinge on the upcoming performances as selection approaches for the first game against New South Wales.