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Queensland’s 2014 State of Origin Game 1 team will be announced on Monday, May 19, but we thought we’d give you the opportunity to become Mal Meninga (just for a minute!) and pick the Maroons team. So tell us, who should line up 1-17 for Queensland in State of Origin I this year?
Who do you think should be the side to run out at ANZ Stadium on May 28 and continue Queensland’s incredible eight-year run of victories?
We’ll do the number-crunching and come out with a Roar Queensland State of Origin team against the side who is picked by Maroons selectors on Monday.
>> Select the New South Wales team for Game I
How do I get started?
To begin, scroll down the page and select a player at each starting position, plus the four bench spots.
We’ve provided you with the leading options at each position, but if you disagree with us and think a bolter should get into the lineup, select ‘other’ and let you know who you want in.
We’ve given you a handful of choices for the four bench spots, but ultimately the decision rests with you.
So, if you want to adopt a bash-and-barge strategy with four bulking forwards? Go for it. Think they need an x-factor utility player or two? Your call!
The biggest headache for Queensland fans has to be the back row. Sam Thaiday is still struggling with a calf injury he picked up earlier in the NRL season, and is looking very doubtful for Origin I.
There can’t be too many dilemmas for a side that’s won eight straight series, but with some of Queensland’s stars on the wrong side of 30, it might be time for a shake-up in a few positions.
Many are of the view that Greg Inglis has surpassed Billy Slater as the best fullback in the game, and must be instated the Queensland custodian for Game 1. If that’s the case, who fills the centre spot he would vacate? Dane Nielsen has to go close, and recently-returned Justin Hodges and Will Chambers would also look fine in a Maroon jumper. Willie Tonga has looked very sharp in a resurgent Eels side, and could also squeeze his way into the side.
In the back row, does Corey Parker get your nod at lock despite playing at prop for Brisbane this season?
Does Chris McQueen remain in the position he held on the left hand side last year, or does Nate Myles return from the front row to take up a spot on the edge? What about Josh Papalii, Matt Gillett and Ben Te’o? Where do they fit in the mix?
Ben Hannant is apparently in contention for a Maroons spot, despite not commanding a spot in the Broncos side at present. Matt Scott would look to have one spot sewn up, but who makes it as the other prop?
As for the bench, do you keep Cherry-Evans there for his utility value? Or has he surpassed Cooper Cronk as a halfback and demand to be picked at number seven?
Now over to you. Give us your thoughts and enjoy putting together the Queensland State of Origin team for Game I.
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