LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Laurie Daley, the Blues coach, is facing criticism for not informing Terrell May about his exclusion from the NSW squad for State of Origin 1.
May, a standout performer for the Wests Tigers, played an exceptional match against the Rabbitohs with 199 running metres and 63 tackles, solidifying his position as one of the top front-rowers in the NRL this season.
Despite Jake Trbojevic and Daniel Saifiti being unavailable, May was overlooked in favor of Max King and Stefano Utoikamanu for the squad.
Daley justified the selection by praising King's excellent performance but did not directly address why Utoikamanu was chosen over May.
He stated, "I think it was more about the fact that other players have been playing particularly well.
Max King, what he's been able to do has been excellent...
Terrell's playing some really good football and like all the others he's just got to keep banging down the door and his opportunity will come at some stage."
Critics argue that May's form warrants a spot in the team, especially given the injuries to other contenders.
The decision to pick Utoikamanu over May has left many baffled and has intensified discussions around Daley's selections.
The backlash against Daley highlights a disconnect between the selections made and the public's perception of player performance.