LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Billy Slater recently revealed the challenging conversation he had with Daly Cherry-Evans after deciding to drop him as the Maroons captain for Origin Game 2.
Announcing his 20-man squad, Slater confirmed that Tom Dearden will replace Cherry-Evans in the No.
7 jersey for the crucial match against New South Wales in Perth.
Cherry-Evans, who has captained Queensland for four years, expressed a desire to continue playing.
Slater became the first Queensland coach to remove a captain mid-series since Trevor Gillmeister in the 1990s.
While he did not disclose specific reasons for the shift, Slater highlighted Dearden's impressive performances off the bench in Game 1 and his strong form with the Cowboys this season.
"We don't take any decision lightly, whether it's a player keeping their spot or another player coming in.
All Queenslanders are considered," Slater remarked, underscoring the weight of the decision.
He expressed respect for Cherry-Evans, stating, "First of all, you won't hear a negative word from me about Daly Cherry-Evans.
What he has given this jersey and what he has done for this footy team...
that will be with all Queenslanders and with Daly for the rest of his life." Slater emphasized that while Cherry-Evans' contributions to the team are invaluable, he believes Dearden has earned his chance to compete for the coveted position.
Slater's call to Cherry-Evans on Sunday night to deliver the news was tough, but he praised DCE for accepting it graciously.
The decision is set to impact team dynamics significantly as Queensland prepares for this vital clash in the State of Origin series.
The announcement of who will take over the captaincy is expected on Tuesday.