LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Queensland's Maroons have made significant changes to their squad for State of Origin II, notably dropping captain Daly Cherry-Evans in favor of Tom Dearden at halfback.
Ricky Stuart has commented that this move indicates Queensland has moved away from its traditional "pick-and-stick" approach to team selection.
Maroons coach Billy Slater announced the 20-man squad on Monday, confirming the alterations needed for the crucial match following the team's 18-6 defeat in the series opener.
Alongside Cherry-Evans' omission, second-rower Beau Fermor has also lost his spot, with Kurt Capewell making a return.
Kurt Mann has been appointed the new number 14, and Dearden will step in as the starting halfback.
Ezra Mam has been included as a reserve in an extended squad, making a quick comeback just three games after serving a suspension for drug-driving.
He will undergo scans for a knee injury sustained during a recent match to determine his fitness for camp.
Additionally, Canberra's Corey Horsburgh and Melbourne's Jack Howarth are expected to be named as reserves, rounding out the squad.
The changes reflect urgency and a strategic shift as Queensland seeks to secure a victory in the upcoming match.