Laurie Daley’s Support for Cameron Munster Draws Attention as Phil Gould Critiques Timing of ‘Daring’ Daly Cherry-Evans Decision

NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley is confident that Cameron Munster will excel as the new captain of the Maroons, despite some concerns regarding Billy Slater’s “bold” decision to drop Daly Cherry-Evans.

Munster, who will don the No.6 jersey, steps in as skipper following the surprising omission of long-time captain Cherry-Evans for Origin II. This marks nearly three decades since a Maroons captain was removed mid-season.

During an appearance on Nine’s Today program on Thursday morning, Daley expressed that the added responsibility would “inspire him to greater heights”.

“Cameron Munster, like many Queenslanders, would have idolised Wally (Lewis) during his youth. The fact that he will be wearing the six jersey and captaining his state is bound to motivate him to reach new heights,” Daley noted.

In Cherry-Evans’ absence, Cowboys halfback Tom Dearden will slot into the No.7 position. Daley believes the new halves combination poses a “significant threat”.

“Daly Cherry-Evans has had an excellent career, but Tom Dearden is one of the most electrifying players in the competition,” he remarked.

“He’s a player that commands immense respect. The way he challenges defenders is unlike anything I’ve witnessed in years. If we don’t bolster our defence, we’ll surely come unstuck.”

“These players are crucial components in the Queensland framework that we must manage effectively; otherwise, they will certainly exploit our weaknesses.”

Blues icon Phil Gould has suggested that Cherry-Evans was dropped prematurely, yet acknowledged that Munster was the “clear choice” for captaincy.

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Gould felt that Slater appeared like a “forlorn” figure after Origin one, believing that “if nothing changes, then nothing will change”.

“I believe they still require Cherry-Evans’ experience and leadership,” he commented during an episode of Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.

“It’s a significant call … I have immense respect for Billy Slater making this decision. As an Origin coach, you’re responsible for making tough calls, and I support his authority to do so.

“Whether we agree with it or not is another matter, but he’s made a daring choice, and I wish him luck. He has taken ownership of the team and the decision, and it’s clear he has reflected deeply on it. While I personally wouldn’t have made this choice, it could very well prove to be the right one.”

Gould also mentioned that the captaincy would elevate Munster’s performance.

“He is now likely the senior playmaker in the squad. He’s been around the longest, sharing the field with notable players like Daly Cherry-Evans, Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk, and Johnathan Thurston. His experience in the Origin arena is significant.

“It was logical to select someone capable of playing a full 80 minutes, and Cameron Munster fits that profile perfectly. I see this as an inspired choice.”

“I think this move will greatly benefit him. He has oscillated in and out of form this season, and this could sharpen his focus and contributions to the game.

“This choice is brilliant … and looking at their player roster, there really wasn’t anyone else who could claim that role. It was clearly the right choice.”