Queensland coach Billy Slater has named three debutants for the State of Origin series opener after a chaotic weekend of injuries forced several players for the Maroons who are looking to win back the shield after last year’s 2-1 defeat.
Roosters rookie Robert Toia is the bolter in the squad, with the 20-year-old picked after just 10 NRL appearances this season after finally getting the chance to play following several injuries.
He’ll start at right centre, with Slater also picking Beau Fermor and Trent Loiero to make their Queensland debuts off the bench.
It was a costly weekend for the Maroons, with Origin hopefuls Tom Gilbert (pec), Murray Taulagi (calf) and Selwyn Cobbo (wrist) all ruled out, while Reece Walsh is also unavailable as the superstar fullback continues to recover from a knee issue.
Daly Cherry-Evans will captain the side despite not being at his best for the Sea Eagles, with the veteran halfback to partner the returning Cameron Munster who missed last year’s series through injury.
Tom Dearden will play the utility role off the bench, with Jeremiah Nanai to start in the back row after finding form following his shock demotion to reserve grade earlier this season.
Kurt Mann, Jesse Arthars and Kulikefu Finefeuiaki are all part of the extended squad.
Game 1 of the State of Origin will be held at 10.05pm next Wednesday at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
[Source: News.com.au]
