Phil Gould has expressed confusion over Api Koroisau’s exclusion from the NSW Blues selectors’ discussions, particularly as the competition for the hooker position intensifies. Reece Robson has donned the No.9 jersey for the past two State of Origin series, but he is now facing pressure from Blayke Brailey, who enjoyed a standout season with the Sharks in 2025. While Robson has moved to the Sydney Roosters, Koroisau’s standing appears to have diminished since his transfer to the Wests Tigers, where he has seen limited action with only four appearances for the Blues.
Despite Koroisau’s solid form contributing to the Tigers’ impressive start this season, Gould questioned why his name isn’t in greater circulation among selectors. On Wide World of Sports’s program “Six Tackles with Gus,” he stated, “I can’t understand it. I would have him as my first choice, but I don’t select teams.” Gould voiced his disbelief at Koroisau’s perceived decline in favour, considering his longstanding synergy with other former Penrith teammates likely to represent NSW. He highlighted Koroisau’s experience and ability to influence the game positively, stating, “He’s one of the more steadying influences… he brings other players into play.”
Gould reasoned that perhaps selectors are trying to reinvent the team after past losses, but he underscored that Koroisau brings crucial skills that shouldn’t be overlooked. He contrasted Koroisau’s capabilities with those of Harry Grant, who has excelled in the Maroons’ setup, hinting that the absence of a player of Koroisau’s calibre might cost NSW in closely fought matches.
At 34, Koroisau remains a key figure in the NRL, helping propel the Tigers into the top-four, and he expressed a strong desire to take part in the Origin series again. In an interview on Nine’s “100% Footy,” he conveyed his readiness for selection, stating, “Every single player that’s eligible wants to play… if they ever did need me again, my hand’s up and ready to go.”
As Koroisau and the Tigers prepare for a significant clash with Brisbane, who are missing several star players, the spotlight remains on whether his contributions will be recognised by selectors in the upcoming series.