LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In the high-stakes world of Rugby League, Laurie Daley is shaking things up as he takes the reins of the NSW State of Origin team for the upcoming 2025 series.
Known for his past loyalty to players during his earlier tenure from 2013 to 2017, Daley is now singing a different tune, emphasizing that form will be the key factor in his selections this time around.
This new approach could spell trouble for Jarome Luai and Mitchell Moses, who may find themselves under the pump to perform.
Despite being the man who broke Queensland's eight-year winning streak, Daley's previous record of just one series win out of five is a thorn in his side.
But with the recent success of Michael Maguire's team in clinching the shield in 2024, the Blues are in a stronger position than they were in Daley's last stint.
Maguire's bold decision to clean house and introduce fresh faces in the previous series has set a precedent for Daley, who is not making any promises to existing players for the upcoming showdown.
The pressure is on, and even star players like Latrell Mitchell may have to prove themselves all over again to earn a coveted spot in the NSW team.
As the Rugby League world anxiously awaits Daley's final squad announcement, one thing is clear - no one is safe from the chopping block in this tough and unforgiving arena.
The game is changing, and only the strongest will survive in the ultimate test of skill and determination.