EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns Dismisses ‘Unfeasible’ Demands for Alterations to Representative Matches

Andrew Johns is firmly against alterations to the representative schedule with 36 players currently absent from their club commitments during the Origin camps this week.

Every season, coaches are challenged to manage the complexities of fielding a competitive team while several of their key players are away in representative camps, alongside injuries or suspensions that might further hinder their line-ups.

Teams in the competition have historically faced significant adversity due to the absence of their representative stars, though some have managed to thrive against higher-ranked opponents.

This season, there’s just a four-point margin separating the first and third positions on the ladder, and all three of these teams will be lining up without their representative players.

Notably, the Bulldogs, Raiders, and Warriors appear to be the least affected teams during this first week of the 2025 Origin series.

The Bulldogs will miss their standout captain Stephen Crichton and prop Max King, both of whom are training under NSW coach Laurie Daley ahead of the Wednesday match.

Ladder leaders will also be without Kurt Mann, who has been named as the 18th man for the Maroons.

On the other hand, the second-placed Raiders will be without Hudson Young when they face the Warriors in Auckland on Sunday, and the Warriors will be missing Mitch Barnett.

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The Panthers and Roosters are set to feel the most impact this week, while the Storm, boasting multiple Origin representatives, have a bye in round 12.

Similarly, Penrith has been allocated a bye around the crucial second and third games of the series.

This week’s Origin series has left the Roosters without a bye, reigniting discussions regarding the equity of the competition schedule and mid-season representative fixtures.

“Some are suggesting a month-long break (in the NRL season) – that’s not feasible. There are calls for international Tests… but the current structure is the best option,” Johns stated on Nine’s Freddy and the Eighth.

“The Warriors often go on a great run, alongside some lower-ranked clubs that have fewer players selected in the Origin squads.

“The NRL should figure out how to allocate byes more equitably during this time. However, anticipating who will play in Origin when the draw is made is virtually impossible; it’s best to leave things as they are.”

Recalling his own experiences transitioning from club to representative duties, Johns emphasised the personal pride and development players achieve through the process.

“Returning from Origin does boost your match fitness,” he remarked.

“I remember Gus (Phil Gould) always said, ‘your teammates got you here, go back and show them your appreciation’.

“I loved that aspect; I took pride in going back and playing for my club just two or three days later.”

The Origin series is set to kick off in Brisbane next Wednesday.