Former New South Wales captain Paul Gallen has urged Nathan Cleary to take on the leadership role for the team ahead of the upcoming State of Origin I. With the announcement of a new Blues coach, Laurie Daley, imminent, it is widely expected that current captain Jake Trbojevic will be dropped from the squad.
Trbojevic, who succeeded James Tedesco in the captaincy, has faced scrutiny, and Gallen believes that Cleary, a standout player for Penrith, should step up as captain. Gallen emphasised that this is a crucial opportunity for Cleary to dominate the leadership role, suggesting that he would thrive in such an environment.
Although Cleary has yet to captain NSW in his 14 Origin appearances, he is on track to return to the starting position for the game on May 28 in Brisbane, following an injury that sidelined him during last year’s victorious series. Gallen’s proposed team includes Cleary and his Penrith partner Jarome Luai, signalling that Eels halfback Mitchell Moses will likely miss out.
In his selections, Gallen has replaced Bradman Best from last year’s winning team with Latrell Mitchell, who recently made headlines with a stunning 50-metre field goal for South Sydney. Gallen praised Mitchell’s ability to perform in crucial moments, affirming that his skill makes him indispensable for the Origin series.
Additionally, Gallen has opted to include Tom Trbojevic on the wing, marking his return to Origin since mid-2023. Despite noting concerns about Trbojevic’s recent performance and fitness level, Gallen expressed confidence in his capabilities when in form.
Gallen’s final team for the first game features:
1. Dylan Edwards
2. Brian To’o
3. Stephen Crichton
4. Latrell Mitchell
5. Tom Trbojevic
6. Jarome Luai
7. Nathan Cleary (c)
8. Payne Haas
9. Reece Robson
10. Mitchell Barnett
11. Angus Crichton
12. Liam Martin
13. Isaah Yeo
14. Connor Watson
15. Spencer Leniu
16. Terrell May
17. Hudson Young
With the count down to the match, excitement is building around the new leadership and strategies in play for the Blues. Gallen’s insights reflect the determination and high stakes of the upcoming State of Origin series.