LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Cooper Cronk has suggested that Manly's Daly Cherry-Evans may prioritize winning a Premiership with the Sea Eagles over playing State of Origin this year.
After an impressive performance in round one, Cronk believes Cherry-Evans could focus on leading Manly to success, especially with their early home game advantage.
Despite Cherry-Evans expressing interest in continuing to play for Queensland, Cronk thinks this could change given Manly's strong start to the season.
Cronk believes Cherry-Evans, at 36 years old, may see this season as his best opportunity to win another NRL premiership with the Sea Eagles.
He suggested that stepping aside from Origin could be the best strategy for Cherry-Evans to achieve this goal.
Cronk highlighted Manly's strong home record and early fixtures as factors that could influence Cherry-Evans' decision.
He thinks that after a few weeks of success, Cherry-Evans may reconsider his commitment to State of Origin and focus on his club instead.
Time will tell if Cherry-Evans ultimately decides to prioritize Manly's Premiership aspirations over representing Queensland in Origin matches.