The Mole: Six Players Under Pressure Ahead of State of Origin Opener

The State of Origin series often brings out the cream of the crop in players, but it also highlights those who struggle under its intense spotlight year after year.

As the first match kicks off this Wednesday night, several individuals will be stepping onto the field with notable pressure bearing down on them for various reasons.

Whether it’s a string of poor performances at the club level or a lack of representative experience, some players are set to feel the pressure in the fevered atmosphere of Suncorp Stadium.

Here’s The Mole’s take on six players who are in the firing line ahead of game one.

Kalyn Ponga

Ponga’s season with the Knights has been challenging, and he currently leads the NRL in handling errors with 23—an alarming statistic the Blues will be keen to exploit. Expect the Blues’ kickers, Nathan Cleary and Mitchell Moses, to test his resilience with various kicks, including grubbers and bombs.

Spencer Leniu

The hard-hitting enforcer is known for his short temper, and the Maroons will undoubtedly seek to provoke him when he comes off the bench. The passionate Queensland crowd will also intensify the atmosphere, and Laurie Daley is aware that the Roosters forward can be a liability if pushed.

Robert Toia

While there’s no denying this young talent’s potential, with only 10 NRL games under his belt, he poses a risk. Even the most promising debutants can feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of Origin, especially a 20-year-old who has only recently emerged.

Catch the 2025 State of Origin series live and free on Nine and 9Now.

Angus Crichton

The in-form back rower has struggled to win favour with the referees in 2025, having given away more penalties than any other player in the NRL. The Maroons are likely to target him in hopes of drawing crucial penalties during the match.

Reuben Cotter

An invaluable member of the Maroons squad, Cotter’s form has mirrored that of the Cowboys, fluctuating this season. He hasn’t quite emulated his energetic performances from previous years, managing to break just eight tackles this season after surpassing 100 in the last three.

Liam Martin

Similar to many of his Panthers teammates, Martin has yet to find the same level of intensity in 2025, particularly in his defensive duties. His 41 missed tackles rank him fifth in the league, and he will certainly be tested by the Maroons’ speedy wingers.