Billy strikes back as six selection risks prove rewarding in Origin coaching ‘masterstroke’

Historical trends indicate that making bold selections and strategic decisions typically leads to victories in State of Origin matches.

In 1995, Paul Vautin’s underdog squad—highlighting 18-year-old rookie Ben Ikin—shocked the Blues, while Wayne Bennett’s so-called “worst Origin team ever” achieved the same in 2020. Last year, Michael Maguire’s unexpected decision to drop NSW captain James Tedesco allowed Dylan Edwards to shine in a comeback series win.

On Wednesday night, Billy Slater’s six strategic risks paid off, equalising the series and setting the stage for a decider in Sydney on July 9.

The coach exhibited a prickly demeanour post-match when questioned about his numerous changes, which received considerable criticism since his team announcement the previous Monday.

MUNSTER’S CAPTAINCY: A STROKE OF GENIUS

Despite never having captained at the state or club level, and possessing a reputation as a bit of a larrikin, Cameron Munster’s elevation to captaincy last week caught many by surprise—especially with Harry Grant and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui overlooked for the role.

In the lead-up to the game, Munster seemed to embody a new persona, leading passionately on-field and defending his coach vocally after a tough day for Slater.

Andrew Johns, a legend for the Blues, described the captaincy decision as a “masterstroke” during his commentary on Nine.

If the appointment raised eyebrows, Slater had complete faith in Munster.

“Even before he became captain, Cameron Munster has been a driving force within this team. He exhibited that even as a young player back in 2017 during game three,” Slater remarked post-match.

“Now he just has the ‘C’ next to his name, but he’s been a natural leader all along.”

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UNEXPECTED WING SWITCH

Zac Lomax had found the try zone five times in his last four Origin appearances, and Queensland realised his aerial prowess posed a threat that had to be countered.

Viewers and commentators were taken aback when Xavier Coates took his position on the left wing at the game’s onset, a tactical move designed to manage Lomax’s height.

The strategy proved effective—Lomax was kept away from the tryline, and the Blues opted not to kick in his direction, choosing instead to attack on the left flank.

Although left winger Brian To’o scored three tries, the switch contained Lomax significantly.

“Xavier is accustomed to playing on the left. We assessed that it was the best approach for our team,” Slater explained.

“Our focus is to analyse our players and construct Queensland’s most competitive side. If it means adjusting positions, that’s what we do. The players exhibited a fantastic attitude this week—no complaints about moving to the bench, switching roles, or changing sides.”

GRANT DECISION

Queensland had never secured an Origin victory with Harry Grant named as starting hooker.

The Maroons thrived in recent series when Ben Hunt would start at dummy-half, absorbing the initial physicality, allowing Grant to come on and utilise his dynamic playing style.

But with Hunt sidelined due to injury, Grant had the responsibility to start, and in the first game, he struggled against NSW’s aggression.

Slater stuck with Grant for game two, and the hooker notably improved. The coach defended Grant’s starting record amidst media scrutiny.

“You can fabricate a narrative around anything,” Slater stated.

“Is Harry Grant regarded as one of the top dummy halves? Without a doubt, he is one of the finest in the game.

“Crafting negativity around those numbers seems unjust. The team has underperformed with him starting, but he’s an exceptional player. He would agree he wasn’t at his best in game one, but that’s a rarity for him, so I wasn’t surprised by his first half performance.”

Kurt Capewell starred in Bennett’s renowned 2020 squad.

After being overlooked for game one this year and recalled for game two, many questioned the choice.

However, the 31-year-old backrower made a remarkable impact starting on Queensland’s left side, playing a crucial role in a try with Maroons debutant Kurt Mann just before half-time.

“The Warriors are succeeding because they have players like Kurt Capewell in their ranks,” Slater remarked afterwards.

“Successful teams consist of hard-working players who are committed to the club, and that’s exactly what Capewell brings.

“I had no clue about the comment regarding missed tackles; I didn’t see that until I checked the papers. It shows that I don’t get bogged down in numbers; I prioritise player habits, actions, and their contribution to the team—and he has delivered superbly.”

“He has been dividing his time between centre and backrow this season, and he’s fit and in excellent form, embodying a team-first mentality.

“While this may have astonished some, it was not unforeseen for me.”

BENCH REVAMP

Numerous commentators were convinced Queensland would implement late changes and not field the same 1-17 squad as announced on Wednesday night.

The choice to seat Patrick Carrigan and Jeremiah Nanai in favour of Trent Loiero and Capewell left many experts scratching their heads, with others claiming Slater had misled with his team announcement.

While Carrigan struggled in the opening match, he showcased renewed energy off the bench in Perth, playing 33 minutes with 10 carries, accumulating 87 metres, and making two tackle breaks; Loiero also impressed in his starting debut.

Capewell’s selection on the left edge proved inspired, alongside Mann who was a dynamic force off the bench.

However, Nanai was perhaps the weakest performer of the night and may face losing his position ahead of game three, following a subpar outing in the first match as well.

TOMMY’S TIME TO SHINE

The most significant selection decision in years—perhaps even decades—was Slater’s choice to drop halfback and captain Daly Cherry-Evans post a disappointing game one.

In his place, Tom Dearden stepped up admirably, and the Cowboys No. 7 did not fail to impress.

After being one of Queensland’s standout players in the previous year’s underwhelming series, he made an impressive debut as the starting halfback for the Maroons.

Dearden recorded a try assist, a tackle break, and made every one of his 26 tackles despite NSW directing a lot of traffic his way.

“Daly has been a fantastic player for many years, but this is Tom’s moment now,” declared Slater after the match.

“Nothing he did tonight surprised us; we’re really proud of him.”