Obviously Mal Meninga will choose Maroons captain Cameron Smith at hooker for the 2015 State of Origin series, but who could be in Queensland’s sights if Smith becomes unavailable?
Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm)
Over the past 12 years, Cameron Smith has represented his state 33 times. No doubt he will feature in his 13th State of Origin series in 2015.
The 2006 Dally M Medallist has played almost 300 games and won grand finals in 2007, 2009 and 2012. He has also won the Wally Lewis Medal for best player in the State of Origin series in 2007, 2011 and 2013.
One of the best hookers of all time, Smith will look to guide his state to a series win in 2015 and bring the shield back north of the Tweed.
James Segeyaro (Penrith Panthers)
Born in Papua New Guinea, Segeyaro is the best young hooker in rugby league. Growing up in Cairns, ‘Choc’ has previously represented the Junior Kangaroos in 2010, his only rep jersey so far.
The 2014 Dally M Hooker of the Year has had an outstanding start to the 2015 season, after helping Penrith to their best season in years, falling one game short of the NRL grand final.
Andrew McCullough (Brisbane Broncos)
Born in Dalby, 86 kilometres from Toowoomba, McCullough has played over 150 NRL games since his debut in 2008, and has been pivotal in keeping Brisbane in finals contention over the past five years, having played nearly every game for the Broncos since 2009.
McCullough could be Smith’s successor, however he hasn’t done much on the big stage.
Jake Friend (Sydney Roosters)
Friend has been hailed as the next Australian and Queensland hooker, having played nearly 150 games with the Sydney Roosters for whom he has been given the role of co-captain in 2015.
However, he has dropped off lately with injury and has struggled for a spot in the starting side.
Matt Ballin (Manly Sea Eagles)
Replacing Cameron Smith through injury in 2010, Ballin is the only active hooker in the National Rugby League to have represented the Queensland Maroons apart from Smith.
Ballin has played over 200 first-grade games and is tireless in defence. The Manly hooker is one of the best players out of dummy half and has the experience to play at State of Origin level.
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