LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
New South Wales back-rower Angus Crichton has expressed skepticism regarding Queensland's squad selection for State of Origin II, claiming it may be an attempt at psychological tactics.
Crichton specifically mentioned the decision to place Jeremiah Nanai and Pat Carrigan on the interchange bench, questioning, "Surely Nanai's not on the bench and surely Patty's not on the bench as well." He perceived these moves as potential "mind games" aimed at confusing the Blues ahead of the match.
The current squad lists Kurt Capewell as starting in the second row and Trent Loiero at lock, while Daly Cherry-Evans has been removed from his roles as captain and halfback, paving the way for Tom Dearden to take on the number seven jersey.
Crichton is particularly focused on Dearden, vowing to "terrorise" him during the game, indicating his intention to exert pressure on the young halfback.
Crichton's remarks highlight the competitive tensions between the teams as they prepare for the critical matchup in Perth.