LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Queensland's State of Origin squad is gearing up for a crack at a third consecutive series win, but they will have to do it without the likes of David Fifita.
In a move that sees new Blues coach Michael Maguire making a slew of changes, Queensland's own Billy Slater has opted for subtle adjustments, but with Fifita being the notable absence.
According to a report by news.com.au, Queensland coach Billy Slater has expressed that David Fifita simply did not meet the high standards he had set for himself last season, hence his decision to drop the Titans star for the State of Origin series opener.
Parramatta forward J'maine Hopgood has been ushered into the starting lineup as the sole debutant in the 17-man squad set to take on NSW on June 5, filling in the void left by Fifita.
Despite the Blues making significant changes under the new coach, Queensland's Slater has the luxury of maintaining the core of the squad that has secured victory in the last two series.
However, there have been a few tweaks, with Jaydn Su'A making a return for the first time since 2021.
Su'A will be taking Fifita's place in the back row, a position where Fifita shone brightly last season, even scoring one of Queensland's two tries in the game three defeat.
"Dave really set the bar high for himself last year, but unfortunately, he hasn't quite reached that same level this year," explained Slater.
"I had a chat with Dave on Sunday night, and he took the news like a true Queenslander, wishing the team nothing but the best for the upcoming challenge."
With the State of Origin series about to kick off, Queensland will have to dig deep and show true grit to continue their winning streak against their old rivals from across the border.