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The first game of the 2015 State of Origin series kicks off on May 27, and coach Laurie Daley and team management will announce their squad for the opening encounter next week.
Through a combination of different factors and circumstances, the Blues’ line-up is likely to look very different from last year’s, and following is the 17 players I would select for NSW, in their quest for ‘two in a row’.
1. Josh Dugan
2. Daniel Tupou
3. Michael Jennings
4. Josh Morris
5. Will Hopoate
6. Blake Austin
7. Trent Hodkinson
13. Trent Merrin
11. Beau Scott
12. Ryan Hoffman
10. James Tamou
9. Robbie Farah
8. Aaron Woods
14. Andrew Fifita
15. Boyd Cordner
16. Josh Jackson
17. Dave Klemmer
Though the Blues will miss Jarryd Hayne at the back, I think they should keep things simple when selecting his replacement and pick the closest thing NSW have to him: an in-form Josh Dugan. Dugan has the size, speed and skill to cause the Maroons trouble, and I think he’s as close to an automatic selection in the number one jersey as you can get.
On the wings, after a sluggish period, Daniel Tupou has played himself back into form in recent weeks and gives the Blues a tall, athletic target out wide for kicks – something Queensland will have to prepare for.
On the other flank, it’s not quite as clear-cut, but I’ve selected Will Hopoate, despite Parramatta’s form, as I think he’s reliable and has a little bit of class about him. I also think he’s one of those players that performs better when on the big stage surrounded by other great players.
The centres – Michael Jennings and Josh Morris – pick themselves based upon being the incumbents, and being in relatively good form. Easy selections, and I’d be shocked if anyone seriously disagrees.
The halves pairing has been a point of contention for many weeks now and in all honesty I don’t think NSW are any closer to having complete confidence and faith in whomever they pick.
Trent Hodkinson gets the nod courtesy of his goal-kicking, clutch field goals, and solid defence. Let’s be honest, he’s not getting picked for his creativity, flair or direction. Which is a little bit of a concern for a halfback, but nonetheless, NSW needs his kicking.
At five-eighth, I’ve rolled the dice and used a lens of ‘youth and form’ to gamble on Blake Austin. The Raider is playing great footy, and considering the lack of competition, he almost demands selection. He may not be ready for Origin football, but what’s the alternative? The brain snaps of Josh Reynolds? The missed tackles of James Maloney? The underdone Adam Reynolds?
A month ago on The Cheap Seats Podcast, I touted a left-field idea of picking Mitchell Pearce at five-eighth alongside Hodkinson, and I’ll happily take credit for being the first to suggest something that has now gained serious momentum. Yet I’ll just as quickly pronounce that I’m not sure Pearce has done enough to warrant a recall to a standard of football that he’s failed at on numerous occasions.
The forward pack shouldn’t cause too many debates.
Ryan Hoffman and Beau Scott were sensational last series and will take their place in the second row. Scott provides some mongrel on the edges, while Hoffman is the reliable workhorse. Trent Merrin will join them at lock, and will look to finally establish himself in Origin football. All he needs to do is continue the fine work he’s being doing for the Dragons. No more, no less.
Upfront, the beef and muscle of James Tamou and Aaron Woods should provide the Blues will plenty of front-row grunt, while Robbie Farah will lead the team from hooker. His position was never under question whatsoever, but he does need to settle down a little for NSW and try not to do too much.
The bench is where things get a little interesting.
Andrew Fifita’s try on the weekend against the Warriors is all the evidence one needs to witness how destructive he can be. Used in short, sharp bursts of impact, he could be a real handful for the Maroons off the bench.
Boyd Cordner, Dave Klemmer and Josh Jackson provide the Blues with a combination of size and athleticism in their reserve roles. While all three selections may be seen as nod to the future, it’s more than just an investment in youth, it’s also recognition of the trio’s talent and ability.
The squad I’ve selected probably isn’t a full rebuild, but given who is available and in-form, I think it’s a good combination of ‘win now’ and ‘build for the future’.
Fire away, Roarers!