QRL boss Ben Ikin acknowledges that Billy Slater was ‘shaken’ before Origin II following press conference blunder

The CEO of QRL, Ben Ikin, has conceded that Billy Slater appeared “rattled” in the lead-up to Origin II following his heated exchange with Aaron Woods.

Woods sparked the tension by labelling Slater a “grub” in a bid to intensify the rivalry after a lacklustre build-up to the first game.

Taking the comment to heart, Slater responded with fervour the day before the second match, referencing the late Paul Green. He later issued an apology to the Green family in the aftermath.

“It seemed to affect him. He appeared close to tears in that second last press conference, which indicates that it hit him hard emotionally,” Ikin shared with 2GB’s Continuous Call Team.

“In the days leading up to the match, he was likely dealing with a lot of distractions and mental noise. Slater himself would probably agree that the last press conference didn’t proceed as he had hoped.

“He made a few missteps but took it upon himself to apologise the following day and ultimately secured the victory.

“These experiences will definitely stay with him. Having observed his journey through some challenging decisions made earlier in the week, it’s clear that Billy Slater possesses the temperament of a champion. He faced a tough moment but emerged stronger, leading his team to a comeback in the series, aiming to seal it in Sydney. I would say he must feel quite relieved right now.”

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Ikin mentioned that he had only exchanged brief messages with Slater after the match and hadn’t conducted an in-depth discussion with him.

Following Origin I, the Maroons coach faced scrutiny and made bold decisions, benching team captain Daly Cherry-Evans and second-rower Beau Fermor.

His risky choices reaped rewards, as Cameron Munster stepped up significantly as captain, while Kurt Capewell delivered one of his standout performances in a Maroons jersey.

Ikin commended Slater for his audacious decision-making.

“Dropping the captain mid-series is quite unusual in this part of the country, but he had a clear vision,” he remarked.

“Many would have understood if he had retained Daly Cherry-Evans, but he trusted his instincts, bringing in Tommy Dearden, who turned out to be one of the strongest players among several changes to the team.”

“Despite the noise surrounding his decisions, he stumbled on that final part of the week; however, he quickly rectified that error.

“This is now his fourth season as a head coach, with all his experience being at the Origin level. There’s a significant difference between playing and coaching, and I’m confident Bill would acknowledge that he’s still learning. I’m sure he will emerge from this series as a more accomplished coach.”