LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The omission of Manly duo Tom and Jake Trbojevic from the NSW State of Origin team has been a significant talking point.
Traditionally automatic selections, their absence signifies a shift under new coach Laurie Daley.
Jake Trbojevic, last year's captain, was ruled out due to a concussion sustained against the Cowboys, and his spot was uncertain from the outset.
Meanwhile, Tom's exclusion raised eyebrows given his form, particularly as he had missed last year's series due to injury and had a shoulder issue the year before.
Fans had hoped to see Tom return on the wing, especially since other candidates like Brian To'o and Zac Lomax had recently returned from injury.
However, his recent performances against the Sharks and Cowboys led Daley to favor incumbents over taking a risk.
Daley noted, "We spoke last night and I just want him fit ...
I think he's struggling a little bit with the way he's running and to play Origin you don't want to be taking people in with any doubts.
He was OK.
He knows he'll get back to being in the squad."
Teammates expressed their support for the Trbojevics after this disappointing news.
Centre Tolu Koula empathized with Jake's situation and expressed optimism for Tom's future, saying, "I'm sure he would've loved to be in the team but I think Turbo's brushed it off.
His main focus now is doing the job that we need him to do here at Manly."
As the squad transitions, the emphasis remains on ensuring the performances of the players aligned with strategic team needs.
The Trbojevic brothers' experience and skill remain valuable assets, and their teammates are confident in their ability to contribute positively moving forward.