LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL legend spills beans on David Fifita's State of Origin snub
The decision to leave out one of the game's most hard-hitting stars has left fans reeling, but now the truth behind the snub has been revealed.
In a recent report by news.com.au, rugby league great and Queensland selector Darren Lockyer has shed light on the surprising omission of David Fifita from the Maroons squad.
The powerhouse Gold Coast Titans forward was once again left out of the team for the State of Origin decider at the iconic Suncorp Stadium on July 17.
Despite many expecting Fifita to make a comeback for the crunch game, coach Billy Slater decided to stick with his current lineup, opting to shuffle Kurt Capewell into the starting XV and placing Felise Kaufusi on the bench.
Slater explained that he wasn't fully convinced by Fifita's performance throughout the 2024 NRL season, leading to his exclusion.
"Dave was a serious contender, but we believe that the 17 players selected have earned their spots through their hard work and dedication," Slater remarked.