Phil Gould claims ‘extremely average’ DCE omission won’t alter anything for the Maroons

Phil Gould has reiterated his disapproval of Queensland’s decision to drop Daly Cherry-Evans ahead of Origin II.

Following the announcement of the Maroons’ squad last week, Gould expressed his concerns about the choice to go with Tom Dearden over Cherry-Evans, suggesting that the responsibility lay with Queensland’s forwards.

“I doubt any halfback, especially a rookie, can thrive behind a forward pack that has been outmatched like that,” he stated.

On Monday, Gould once again voiced his criticism regarding this decision.

“He misses out on that farewell moment after a stellar career; they have prematurely ended it for him,” Gould commented on Nine’s 100% Footy.

“He won’t have the chance to stand on the field post-match, win or lose, and say, ‘this is my final game.’

“The decision has been taken out of his hands; it’s quite dismissive, honestly. I find it all quite disappointing, to be frank.”

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As for his predictions for Wednesday’s match, Gould foresees a significant defeat for Queensland, tipping Dylan Edwards to be named man of the match.

“I can see New South Wales scoring four or five tries, but I can only envision two tries for Queensland,” he remarked.

“My prediction is four or five tries to one or two; if all the conversions are successful, I could see it ending 40-12.

“I don’t expect it to be a tight contest; I know everyone is hoping for a decider, but I simply don’t believe that will be the case.”