EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Issues Stark Warning to NSW Selectors Regarding Spencer Leniu’s ‘Risky’ Inclusion

Phil Gould has delivered a surprising warning to the NSW Blues selectors, advising against the inclusion of Roosters dynamo Spencer Leniu for the opening match of the State of Origin.

The towering front-rower made a significant impact at times during last year’s series, contributing as the Blues fought back to reclaim the shield with a 2-1 victory, coming off the bench in all three encounters.

Leniu is considered an unusual and unique player in today’s game, often deployed in short bursts to create maximum impact.

However, Gould suggests this style may not align well with Laurie Daley’s plans when finalising the squad for Suncorp Stadium post round 11.

“I have a lot of respect for Spencer, but I’m not entirely convinced that needing a 10-minute impact player off the bench is the right approach for Origin,” he stated on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus.

“If the team suffers two head injury assessments and receives a sin bin or a send-off, the dynamics of the squad shift dramatically. At no point in his career has Spencer Leniu demonstrated that he can consistently perform at a 70 or 80-minute capacity at the club level, let alone at Origin level.

“I wouldn’t risk that. While it may have worked out well at times last year—given his ability to disrupt opposition—it’s still a calculated risk.

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“If the plan is to field Spencer for even 50 minutes, he risks being outmatched. He hasn’t done that consistently at club level.

“He is a powerful impact player off the bench who can unsettle teams and bring about a change in momentum.

“That has its value – but it also carries the risk of unexpected situations arising where you may need to account for various contingencies. It’s a gamble if you choose to proceed with him.”

In his three Origin games thus far, Leniu averages 25 minutes on the field, posting impressive stats with an average of 98 run metres per game.

In his stead, Gould advocates for the Blues to select four edge forwards in their 17-man squad, suggesting Terrell May should make his debut in the front-row rotation.

Dropping in two bench backrowers, Gould opts for Angus Crichton and Haumole Olakau’atu, featuring Canberra’s Hudson Young and Penrith’s Liam Martin in starting positions.

Connor Watson is expected to keep his position as the bench utility, but Gould believes a change in the spine is necessary for the first game of the series.

“I would select Api Koroisau as my hooker without hesitation,” he affirmed.

Phil Gould’s projected NSW Blues forward pack and bench

8. Payne Haas 9. Api Koroisau 10. Mitch Barnett 11. Hudson Young 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Connor Watson 15. Terrell May 16. Angus Crichton 17. Haumole Olakau’atu