LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Mal Meninga, the Queensland rugby league legend, anticipates potential last-minute changes to the NSW Blues lineup for the State of Origin opener against Queensland, revealing insights based on his extensive coaching experience with the Maroons.
Meninga highlighted that NSW coach Laurie Daley and Queensland's Billy Slater could implement strategic shifts right before the game at Suncorp Stadium next Wednesday.
Meninga's analysis comes as he reviews Daley's selections, noting the exclusion of Wests Tigers prop Terrell May in favor of Max King and Stefano Utoikamanu.
King has been playing impressively for the Bulldogs, which has contributed to the team's current top ranking.
He is positioned on the bench to relieve Payne Haas, but Meninga suggests that Daley might consider starting King to capitalize on his form and set a strong foundation for the game.
Drawing a parallel to Slater's previous lineup decisions involving Ben Hunt and Harry Grant, Meninga proposes that Daley could exploit King's abilities early on.
This strategy may allow Barnett, who would come off the bench, to take advantage of a fatigued Queensland pack later in the match.
Additionally, Meninga speculated about the possibility of Queensland's Beau Fermor starting, reflecting on his recent outstanding performance.
He conveyed this thought during an appearance on SEN Radio with Queensland great Corey Parker, stating, "I think there will be changes to both sides.
I feel, as you know, if you are making your debut sitting on the bench...you get very nervous.
Sometimes it's better to run on and get stuck into it." He continued, "You may see changes.
Beau may come into the back row, Reuben Cotter with a lot more experience goes to the bench.
I think NSW will start with Max King.
Put Mitch Barnett on the bench.
Just get in and get stuck into it."
Overall, Meninga's remarks underline the unpredictability and strategic intricacies inherent in the State of Origin series, leaving fans eager to see how both teams finalize their rosters.