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For the past seven years as Queensland’s Origin streak went into uncharted territory, the annual tradition in the media, pubs, water coolers and sidelines has revolved around who is the best NSW team to stop the rot.
The themes are who will the halves be, do we go with youth or campaigners, aggression or skill, and do we beat Queensland at their own game or contain their superstars?
For the better part of the decade there has been no such debate north of the border in regards to their squad. This was for the simple reason that when you win so many series in a row the team tends to pick itself.
With a team full or premiership winners, immortals, and proven campaigners it has seen an unprecedented period of dominance.
However now that many of these superstars are heading to the twilight of their careers it starts to open the door for discussion of who will fill in the void when these players eventually depart.
For my NSW brethren who are hoping that the departure of these players will lead to a significant decline in the quality of the Queensland opposition, you may want to look away.
The below are players who are in their thirties with recognised Origin credentials and the replacements are those who have yet to play or made a rare Origin appearance.
The Backs
Cooper Cronk – Ben Hunt
Hunt burst into form last year with a stellar season with the Broncos, will unfortunately be remembered for the dropped ball in the grand final. However, with the Broncos current performances, there is a good chance he will have an opportunity to redeem himself.
Johnathan Thurston – Michael Morgan
In any other era would have walked into an Origin squad by now, his introduction into Cowboys as a first grader saw the team find an extra gear and a perfect halves partner for Thurston. Within two seasons the Cowboys lifted the trophy with a highlight of the match being his last-minute miracle pass to level the game.
Billy Slater – Anthony Milford
Currently at five-eighth for the Broncos, Milford has experience at fullback. His form at Canberra at the back was devastating. He only misses out on the five-eighth spot due to the presence of Michael Morgan.
Greg Inglis – Valentine Holmes
Holmes has had a breakout season in 2015 for the Sharks and has established himself as a regular first grader. Ben Barba has kept him from his preferred position, but he has been relishing his time on the wing, a big factor in Cronulla’s successful 2016 season to date.
Darius Boyd – Cameron Munster
Already the heir apparent in Melbourne in the absence of Slater, Munster has proven to be an extremely talented centre, wing and fullback.
Justin Hodges – Corey Oates
While previously dabbling at second row, Oates has been a revelation in the outside backs with barnstorming speed and strength. He is an unbelievably similar player to Hodges without the evident grubbiness – sorry I am a NSW supporter.
The forwards
Corey Parker – Ethan Lowe
Another unsung hero in the Cowboys squad, Lowe is an absolute tackling and hit-up machine. The only thing lacking is the silver streaks, but that will come with experience.
Sam Thaiday – Dylan Napa
How this monster redhead survived the Queensland sun I will never know but Napa has been a standout for an otherwise disappointing Roosters team.
Matt Scott – Josh McGuire
McGuire looks set for a long career at the top levels of the game.
Though there will be a lot of conjecture, it appears that Queensland through the implementation of their emerging Maroons squads, questionable eligibility rules and a bit of luck and good timing have ensured that there are players ready to take the reins.
While may not achieve the same heights as their predecessors, they will ensure many a series win for the Maroons.
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