There have been a wide range of opinions about the selection process used for this year’s New South Wales Origin team.
Much of that criticism has been negative, with the non-inclusions of Jarryd Hayne, Jamal Idris and Aidan Tolman, who were marked as certainties prior to the announcement of the first game side.
Ricky Stuart has stood by the selection process as the media has attacked him from almost every angle.
The truth is Stuart had to try something, and what better time than when victory looks an impossible task.
That comment may sound crazy, and you would never hear Stuart voice it, but let’s be honest. Queensland once again has a world-class side, and would have to be off their game for New South Wales to sneak a victory.
Stuart has picked what he believes to be the best players for each individual position, and while you might not agree with his choices, you have to give him credit for taking a chance.
This radical change massively differs from previous years, where New South Wales seemed to pick the best 17 players and then shuffle them around until they look like half a side.
The other major change to the side is that it no longer seems to be focused on defence. The inclusions of Jamie Soward, Michael Jennings, Josh Dugan and Akuila Uate are warning signs for Queensland that New South Wales are going to score points.
They have managed to select a team that appears to have good balance, with Paul Gallen, Michael Ennis, and Greg Bird retaining their positions, adding some starch and good old fashion Origin mongrel to the team.
On Wednesday night we will find out if the players can back up Stuart’s decisions, and at the very least hold their heads high as wave after wave of Queensland attacks batter their line.
If all doesn’t go to plan you can be almost certain that this move by Stuart will be his last, with the rest of the selection panel in Bob Fulton, Bob McCarthy and Geoff Gerard very tight lipped about their thoughts.
Stuart has been left standing in front of the selection freight train.
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