LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Billy Slater is facing pressure to make changes after Queensland's dismal performance in State of Origin Game 1, which marked their third consecutive loss to NSW.
A key player absent from Slater's options is AJ Brimson, who is banned from participating in State of Origin due to his recent switch in international allegiance from Australia to England.
Reports indicate that despite Brimson's potential as a utility, with experience playing in the halves, he cannot be called upon due to his eligibility status.
Brimson, a Gold Coast Titans player, has a history of contributing to the Maroons, having played four games, the last being in Game 3 of the 2023 series when Reece Walsh was suspended and Kalyn Ponga chose to focus on club commitments.
However, Brimson's decision to pursue representation for England with hopes of joining the squad for next year's Ashes series against Australia has made him ineligible for State of Origin.
According to eligibility rules, players who represent a Tier 1 nation like England or New Zealand are barred from playing in State of Origin, whereas players from Tier 2 nations such as Tonga or Samoa can still participate.
With the current struggles in the Queensland fullback position caused by Walsh's knee injury and Ponga's inconsistent form, Brimson's versatility could have offered a solution, especially with Daly Cherry-Evans likely to be replaced at halfback.
However, since Brimson likely anticipated limited chances to play in this year's Origin due to stiff competition from Cherry-Evans, Munster, Dearden, and Fogarty, he may not have foreseen a return as an option in Game 2.
In summary, Slater has to strategize without Brimson, as his ban complicates an already challenging situation for Queensland's lineup in State of Origin.