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Maroons coach Slater names side for Origin game two with surprise exclusion of star back

Maroons coach Slater names side for Origin game two with surprise exclusion of star back

By Mosese Raqio
17/06/2024
[Image: Sporting News]

Queensland Maroons coach and legend Billy Slater has named his side for game 2 of the State of Origin against the NSW Blues next week with the surprise exclusion of start Broncos utility back Selwyn Cobbo from the match day squad.

Another exclusion from the squad is J’maine Hopgood who has been denied a second Origin appearance after star fullback Reece Walsh retains his spot in the number 1 jersey.

Walsh did not play any games after his injury in game 1 of the Origin and has recovered well in time for game 2 next week.

Other players that will be making their Origin appearance for the first time this year include Dane Gagai, Heilum Luki, Kurt Capewell and Trent Loiero.

Reuben Cotters, Ben Hunt and Linday Collins make up the front row, Jaydn Su’A and Jeremiah Nanai will start in the second row and Patrick Carrigan will be at lock.

Daly Cherry-Evans will start at halfback and Tom Dearden will be at five-eighth while Valentine Holmes and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow will link up at the centres.

Murray Taulagi and Xavier Coates will be on the wings with Reece Walsh starting at fullback.

The interchange includes Harry Grant, Moeaki Fotuaika, Felise Kaufusi and Kurt Capewell while the reserves include Dane Gagai, Heilum Luki and Trent Loiero.

The Maroons will play the Blues at 10.05pm next Wednesday in Melbourne.

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