Queensland Maroons legend Cameron Smith has made significant changes to his squad ahead of Origin I, looking to reclaim the coveted shield for the state.
The team coached by Billy Slater, to be revealed next Monday, faces injury setbacks with both Reece Walsh and Ben Hunt unavailable.
Xavier Coates, who missed out on Origin III last year due to injury, is set to make his return, alongside the inclusion of Tom Gilbert. Additionally, Cameron Munster is back in the fold.
In an exciting move, Smith has chosen to give Beau Fermor his debut for the Maroons, while Jeremiah Nanai will take his place on the bench.
Cameron Smith and Billy Slater. Getty
Smith praised Fermor on Nine’s 100% Footy, stating, “He’s displayed fantastic form with the Titans.”
Phil Gould, a former coach for the Blues, labelled it an “inspired selection,” adding, “I admire that choice. He’s a really talented player and will shine among such exceptional teammates in Origin.”
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Additionally, Smith is opting for Munster to play five-eighth, with Tom Dearden, last year’s No.6, placed on the bench as a utility option.
The former hooker believes Hunt’s injury has spared Slater from a “difficult decision” between the two players.
Beau Fermor of the Titans makes a break to score a try. Getty
Smith added, “The conversation has revolved around Tom Dearden and the utility value he brings.”
“He’s essentially a younger version of Ben Hunt; he plays in the halves yet can also take on a role as No.9. He’s tough and well-suited for Origin; we’ve seen his impact for Queensland already. He can be utilised in various positions, whether in the halves or as an extra ball-playing lock. I think he’ll perform exceptionally.”
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The player Dearden may replace is Harry Grant, who has not been seen in first grade since round six due to a hamstring injury.
Smith anticipates Grant’s return next week, noting a “major test” awaits him.
“He’s been sidelined for four weeks with this hamstring issue. I believe he will feature this week, and Billy will closely monitor his performance and recovery. If he can’t go, then Reed Mahoney, who is in excellent form, may get the nod,” he said.
Cameron Smith’s Game One Queensland Team
1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Xavier Coates 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Cameron Munster 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Reuben Cotter 9. Harry Grant 10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui 11. Tom Gilbert 12. Beau Fermor 13. Pat Carrigan 14. Tom Dearden 15. Lindsay Collins 16. Jeremiah Nanai 17. Moeaki Fotuaika 18th Man: Kurt Mann
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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