‘Laurie Daley’s Candid Take: Current Blues Captain Can’t Count on Automatic Selection’

Laurie Daley has acknowledged that there is no “guarantee” for Jake Trbojevic’s selection in the NSW team, despite him captaining the side to a State of Origin series victory last year.

While the determined leader contributed less on-field in 2024, his leadership was pivotal in the Blues’ comeback after losing the first game against Queensland.

However, with a number of talented middle-forwards available to Daley ahead of the opening match in a month’s time, the pressure is intensifying on the keen Manly player.

There are strong contenders emerging, including Terrell May and Max King, who are vying for a debut alongside established front-rowers Payne Haas, Spencer Leniu, and Mitch Barnett. When asked by Nine’s Danny Weidler whether Trbojevic is a definite starter, Daley’s response offered significant insight into the Blues’ direction.

“There’s no guarantees,” Daley told 9News Sydney on Monday evening.

“I recognise that Jake had limited game time last year, but from discussions within the group and insights from the staff, he played a significant role in maintaining team cohesion.

“Like every player, it’s essential to evaluate their current form.

“I have immense respect for Jake; he’s one of the few players I’ve had the privilege to coach and I am well aware of how passionate he is about representing NSW.

“He missed last weekend’s match and Manly has a bye this week, but there are still a few games ahead.

“Class players have the ability to rise to the challenge, and I expect Jake to showcase his best performance in the upcoming games.”

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This season, Trbojevic has averaged 63 run metres per game and has struggled to make an impact with the ball, though he remains one of the leading defenders in the centre.

In comparison, players like May have been exceptional for the Wests Tigers following his off-season transition from the Roosters, highlighting the competitive edge in performance metrics.

Another challenge facing Daley in his second tenure as Blues coach is the situation surrounding the struggling Panthers, who currently sit at the bottom of the ladder and feature several incumbents on the roster.

Dylan Edwards in particular may face competition as James Tedesco seeks to reclaim his position at fullback, but Daley remains unconcerned about the reigning champions’ form and would not hesitate to select any of the established players from Penrith.

“I have no worries,” he stated.

“All the Penrith players, if selected, have proven they can perform in high-pressure matches, as demonstrated in the past four years. Sometimes, we analyse team performance rather than individual contributions.

“Numerous players in contention for State of Origin are excelling, but as a team, they’re not achieving their desired outcomes.

“I feel confident about selecting players who’ve been part of a team that has won four consecutive titles and have consistently performed at their best. It’s all about assessing current form along with past accomplishments at this level.”

Daley was reserved regarding the selection of the halves, where incumbents Mitch Moses and Jarome Luai both aim to partner the returning Nathan Cleary.

Regardless of who is chosen, the Blues should be positioned strongly.

“Those are the challenging decisions I’m keen to face,” he remarked.

“If we’re leaving out players of that calibre, then it signifies we have a very strong squad.

“It’s going to be a tough discussion for those who miss out, but that’s part of the role.”

The teams for the first game will be announced following the completion of round 11.