LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Gorden Tallis has expressed skepticism about Billy Slater's potential resignation as Queensland's State of Origin coach after next week's pivotal Game 3 against New South Wales.
There are growing concerns regarding Slater's future, particularly following increased public scrutiny and criticism about his coaching decisions, including his controversial selection choices and the decision to strip Daly Cherry-Evans of the captaincy.
Slater has faced challenges throughout the series, including being compelled to apologize after a mix-up involving his predecessor, the late Paul Green, during a heated exchange with Aaron Woods.
This incident led the former Blues player to label Slater a "grub," which, paradoxically, seemed to invigorate the Maroons.
Cameron Munster, Queensland's new captain, noted after a standout performance that the team was eager to win for their beleaguered coach, highlighting the pressure affecting Slater.
Veteran journalist Dean Ritchie commented on NRL 360 that Slater appears to be struggling with the demands of his role, saying, "To me when I look at Bill, I don't see a smile on his face anymore...
I just don't know whether Billy looks like a coach that's enjoying it." Ritchie speculated that Slater might consider stepping down regardless of the series outcome, saying, "it just would not shock me, if Billy said, 'you know what, I've had enough.'"
Given the relentless pressure associated with coaching the Maroons, it is understandable if Slater were to choose to exit the high-stakes environment following this series.
He maintains a prominent media presence with Channel Nine and manages a breeding stable with his wife, Nicole, which may offer a more appealing alternative to the intense scrutiny of the Origin role.