Queensland coach Billy Slater has indicated potential changes to his lineup for the upcoming State of Origin II clash, emphasising the need to “consider everyone.” During an appearance on Nine’s The Sunday Footy Show, Slater faced inquiries from NSW legends Andrew Johns and Brad Fittler regarding player selections, mentioning names such as Selwyn Cobbo, Dane Gagai, Corey Horsburgh, and Josh Papalii.
Injuries to key players, including Reece Walsh (knee), Murray Taulagi (calf), and Ben Hunt (hamstring), were also addressed, with speculation that all three could return in time for the pivotal match on June 18. Walsh and Taulagi are expected to play next week for their respective clubs, while Hunt might rejoin Brisbane shortly thereafter, giving them some game time before the Origin showdown.
Slater acknowledged the complexity of team selection, stating, “All things are thought about.” He expressed that assembling the optimal squad requires consideration of various scenarios, focusing on selecting the best team to deliver a strong performance for Queensland.
When asked about a potential return for Papalii, Slater confirmed that he had retired from the Origin scene prior to the 2023 series. However, Johns urged Papalii to reconsider his retirement, citing examples of other players who have reversed similar decisions.
Johns presented five changes he believes should be implemented, including the suggestion that captain Daly Cherry-Evans step aside for younger player Tom Dearden. Fittler inquired if Walsh and Taulagi were under consideration, to which Slater affirmed that every available player would be evaluated. He reiterated the importance of considering who would be replaced if changes were made, stressing the necessity to field the best players for each position.
Johns proposed that Cobbo should replace Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow as a left winger, allowing Valentine Holmes to move to left centre. He noted the lack of a strong winger for Queensland’s yardage gains during game one, referencing impressive run metres by NSW wingers Brian To’o and Zac Lomax compared to Queensland’s Xavier Coates and Holmes.
Cameron Smith supported the concept of recalling Cobbo, highlighting the urgency for Queensland to bolster their back line against a formidable NSW team. He observed that the Blues’ back five are aggressive, with crucial contributions from wingers necessary to alleviate pressure on the forwards.
As the June 18 match approaches, Slater and his coaching team must weigh their options carefully to ensure Queensland fields their strongest possible side.