LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Kevin Walters and Corey Parker have expressed their belief that Queensland veteran Ben Hunt will be dropped from the State of Origin squad for Game 1, with Tom Dearden emerging as a likely replacement.
Hunt, who has been a consistent presence for the Maroons since debuting in 2017, has struggled with his form this season, particularly his connection with injured teammate Reece Walsh.
Meanwhile, Dearden has excelled for the Cowboys, who are currently 9th in the NRL ladder after winning four of their last five games.
Despite Hunt's experience, his role has largely been in a two-man hooker rotation with Harry Grant, who is expected to return as the starting hooker.
This likely positions Dearden and Hunt in competition for the Maroons' No.14 role.
Walters stated, "DCE and Munster, Dearden is 14 and Benny Hunt misses out," emphasizing his preference for Dearden.
He added, "Dearden has to be in the 17 and you're not going to leave Munster out.
You're not going to leave DCE out, that's my opinion."
Both players are skilled in defense, but Dearden's recent form gives him an edge.
Former South Sydney coach Jason Demetriou agreed that while Dearden currently has the advantage, circumstances could change leading up to the squad announcement.