Home Sports Time to Shine: Big Bunnies Star Urged to Return After Two-Year Origin Hiatus

Time to Shine: Big Bunnies Star Urged to Return After Two-Year Origin Hiatus

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Keaon Koloamatangi is eyeing a return to the State of Origin spotlight, receiving significant praise from esteemed coach Wayne Bennett. The South Sydney Rabbitohs star has been outstanding this season, particularly after Bennett moved him into the front row, showcasing his dynamic abilities on the field.

In a recent match against the Warriors, Koloamatangi demonstrated his prowess by scoring a try and amassing impressive statistics, including 197 run metres, eight tackle breaks, and 39 tackles, even though Souths suffered a loss. With a vacancy in the NSW Blues forward pack due to an injury to Warriors prop Mitch Barnett, Koloamatangi finds himself in a prime position for selection for the upcoming game two on June 18, despite having missed out on the opener.

When questioned about Koloamatangi’s prospects, Bennett downplayed direct comments but acknowledged the player’s remarkable form. Jai Arrow, Koloamatangi’s teammate, publicly endorsed him, declaring that he deserves to be chosen and is currently among the best middle forwards available for NSW.

Koloamatangi’s statistics back Arrow’s assertions; he has averaged nearly 140 metres per game this season, contributing significantly to Souths’ attack with four linebreak assists, three tries, and nine offloads. Defensively, he has been reliable, averaging 31 tackles per game with a high efficiency rate. His performance rivals that of Stefano Utoikamanu, another contender for a selection spot after being part of the wider squad for game one.

Brad Fittler, a legend in Blues history and the one who introduced Koloamatangi to Origin two years ago, suggested he should be considered to fill Barnett’s role. Fittler noted the uncertainty surrounding Payne Haas during the season’s preparation and hinted that Utoikamanu was considered for a starting position if Haas couldn’t play. He also highlighted Koloamatangi’s versatility to play both back-row and middle positions, making him a valuable asset for the team.

Koloamatangi’s final opportunity to impress selectors will be next Sunday when the Rabbitohs face the Raiders in Canberra. Meanwhile, the extent of Barnett’s injury is still undetermined, with further scans pending to assess his sidelined status.

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