LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Billy Slater's situation as coach of the Maroons in State of Origin is both advantageous and challenging.
Unlike club coaches, who may have some leniency during tough seasons, State of Origin coaches in New South Wales and Queensland face immense pressure to perform immediately.
The expectations are high, and with limited time to assemble a cohesive team, any misstep could lead to dismissal.
One of the intrinsic challenges for Queensland's coach is the reduced pool of player options compared to New South Wales.
The numbers simply work against Queensland, creating a landscape where they often have fewer elite players to select from.
Despite this, both states have seen periods of success, with remarkable talent emerging historically to foster competitive balance in Origin.
Currently, however, New South Wales appears to be in a more favorable position regarding player depth and quality.
Ultimately, while Slater's limited options may streamline decision-making, they simultaneously weigh heavily on the potential for success, encapsulating the dual nature of coaching in this fiercely competitive arena.