State Of Origin 2026

Not a single...leg.

 

I dont know what your basis for this belief is. I mean he picked Nikora didn't he?

 

Levity aside, I do think having an unathletic build and style will work against him, even though it shouldn't.

 

Trindall is a pure ball playing half. It's 95% of his game. Which I actually enjoy, it's old school. His running game is barely a thing. Not pacey, and most of his breaks are created by deception, and ball playing rather than actual athleticism. I mean he's built like Jason Smith so not surprising.

I've always thought there's a sort of unconscious bias against guys like that in the modern game, which is a shame.

 

Billy has quit. Thanks to him for his service. Did a great job overall. We were the better team in the first two games, and 99 out of 100 times you win that series. Didn't go our way.

Hopefully Smithy puts his hand up. I think he has a bit more of an idea when it comes to forwards.

 

Souths have said Wayne Bennett has the green light to coach QLD if the QRL offer it. The QRL does not have the same policy as the NSWRL regarding standalone Origin coaches....which is a stupid policy. Word is he's a strong chance of getting it.

 

Yeah, without having any clue about his selection style, I don't see how it's not a good pick. He'll consult with Wayne, he was a permanent member of the dynasty teams so he knows what ultra high standards look like on the field and in training. And he's done well with the 19's. There's no reason to think it's a poor pick imo.

 

Bennett, it's just been reported, is an official advisor to Boyd for next year, having publicly backed him. I think it's safe to assume this was something of a compromise between the QRL and Souths and the two of them.

The leadership thing, I mean Boyd did captain the Broncos to 3rd and 6th under Bennett. About 50 matches more than Slater captained Melbourne.

And I don't think the mental health issues Boyd had 12 years ago means he isn't mentally stable today. Lotta dudes go off the rails when their partner leaves them. He's obviously put that behind him and is now a mental health ambassador. I think he'll be fine.

Daley and Fittler had everything going for them in terms of being legends of the game, leaders, prior experience, super well-liked etc. And they were both pus.