LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The controversial decision to drop Queensland's Game 1 hero Selwyn Cobbo has sparked a heated debate, with some questioning a possible conspiracy theory behind the move.
The famous 'pick and stick' policy of the Maroons has been labeled as "BS" after coach Billy Slater left Cobbo out of the Game 2 squad.
Despite Cobbo's standout performance in the series opener, where he came off the bench to replace the injured Reece Walsh, Slater has defended his decision by stating that it was in the best interest of both Cobbo and the team to sit out the upcoming game in Melbourne.
Some have likened Slater's decision to a strategic move on the rugby league field, opting not to go with a four-forward bench.
During a fiery exchange on NRL360, a Maroons legend shut down the debate with a cutting remark that ended the discussion.
Slater, who has a winning record as coach in his first two seasons, was grilled on the reasons behind Cobbo's exclusion from the squad.
The coach cited both form and injury as factors in the young player's omission.
The decision has divided fans and experts alike, with some questioning the validity of Slater's choice and others understanding the need for tough decisions in the world of elite sport.
The drama surrounding Cobbo's axing adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming State of Origin clash, with tensions running high between the two rival teams.
As the countdown to kick-off begins, all eyes will be on the Maroons as they look to defend their title and prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in the world of rugby league.