Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Slater to Decide Cherry-Evans’ State of Origin II Fate as Dearden Emerges

Queensland coach Billy Slater will announce his Game II halfback selection on Sunday following calls for improvement from his No.7 after Origin I

Image

Overview

  • Daly Cherry-Evans said he doesn’t yet know if he has done enough to retain the Maroons’ No.7 jersey after Queensland’s 18-6 loss in Game I
  • North Queensland coach Todd Payten urged Slater to start Tom Dearden in the halves if Queensland wants to win State of Origin II
  • Dearden’s strong cameo off the bench and his 2024 Ron McAullife Medal have reinforced his credentials as a potential replacement
  • Queensland Rugby League CEO Ben Ikin and former greats including Andrew Johns and Cooper Cronk publicly questioned Cherry-Evans’ attacking direction in Game I
  • Slater’s decision on Sunday will also shape changes to the Maroons’ spine and bench for the must-win match