Aaron Woods has sparked controversy ahead of State of Origin game two by launching a fierce criticism of Maroons coach Billy Slater during a live radio broadcast. The ex-NSW Blues front-rower expressed his shock at Slater’s decision to drop Daly Cherry-Evans from the squad for the crucial match in Perth. Cherry-Evans, who has been axed for Tom Dearden—who previously came off the bench—has been a central figure in Queensland’s lineup.
Speaking on Triple M’s Breakfast With Beau and Woodsy, Woods voiced his disbelief, remarking that Cherry-Evans’s omission was unprecedented since 1996. He accused Slater of poor judgement and of making Cherry-Evans a scapegoat following the team’s poor performance in the series opener. Woods pointed out that Slater had previously stated the issue wasn’t about personnel, yet he promptly replaced the captain. He suggested that the mounting media scrutiny following three consecutive losses might have influenced Slater’s decision-making.
Woods also called into question other players’ performances, highlighting that stars like Harry Grant have not performed well as starters. He noted that Cherry-Evans should have remained part of the team, given the circumstances.
In addition to Cherry-Evans’s exclusion, the Maroons’ lineup saw Beau Fermor drop out, making room for Kurt Capewell, while Kurt Mann will debut off the bench. The pressure is escalating on Slater, and Woods is keen to see if the coach can bounce back from this challenging situation.
Woods feels that Slater’s recent actions have compromised his reputation, urging him to show a more rugged side reminiscent of his playing days when he displayed greater tenacity. He concluded by suggesting a need for Slater to revert to his former self, implying that the current situation has left him less confident and more vulnerable as a leader.