Will EvansNRL Representative Selections
April 27th 2009 07:18
2009 Representative Selections
With just under two weeks until the Anzac Test and City v Country clashes and six weeks until State of Origin I, its time to look the intriguing round of selection table decisions coming up. There are spots still up for grabs in the Australian and New Zealand Test sides, the Queensland side generally picks itself, but it is the NSW squad – on the verge of becoming the first side in Origin history to lose four straight series – that has sparked the most debate.
FULLBACK:
Australia: Incumbent – Billy Slater
Although he’s not quite blitzing the competition in the same manner as last year, Slater appears to be a walk-up start for the Kangaroos barring injury. The Storm custodian will be desperate to erase the memories of 2008’s World Cup final, where he gifted Benji Marshall a crucial try in the 34-20 loss to NZ. Karmichael Hunt’s virtuoso display on Friday night keeps the acid on Slater, but he has been in solid if not spectacular form behind a spluttering Storm outfit.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Lance Hohaia
Hohaia is guaranteed a spot in the Kiwis’ 17 after his World Cup heroics, but he may occupy the bench utility spot. The World Champion’s other option in the No. 1 jersey is underrated Rooster Sam Perrett, currently filling in admirably for the injured Anthony Minichiello.
Queensland: Incumbent – Karmichael Hunt
Although Slater was initially selected at fullback, coach Mal Meninga opted to start the courageous Hunt in the final two Origins of 2008, with Billy coming off the bench. Only a repeat of this ploy will deny Slater the starting No. 1 spot, despite Hunt’s fearless and physical game suiting Origin perfectly.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Kurt Gidley
Gidley was a late inclusion in the Origin decider last year after Brett Stewart was originally selected but came off the bench, and Stewart was set to continue his reign as Blues fullback despite the suspension that ruled him out of the first month of the competition. Five tries in two scintillating performances since his comeback rocketed Stewart back into Origin contention, but a knee injury has since ruled him out for up to three months. Newcastle skipper Kurt Gidley shapes as the front-runner, and is also a hot favourite to captain the Blues. If Gidley was unavailable, NSW would have to look to Preston Campbell, Wade McKinnon, Ben Hornby or Luke Patten.
WINGERS:
Australia: Incumbents – Joel Monaghan and David Williams
The likely pairing of Hodges and Inglis in the centres means one wing spot will be occupied by Israel Folau, where he has predominantly been used by the Broncos. The other wing is one of the few positions still there for the taking. Monaghan has been solid for the Raiders, while 2008 sensation Williams has been hampered by injury and appears a longshot unless he produces something spectacular in the next fortnight. Another contenders include Darius Boyd, who has been brilliant for St. George, but incumbent Williams appears to be a longshot after an injury-interrupted start to the season.
New Zealand: Incumbents – Sam Perrett and Manu Vatuvei
2008 International Winger of the Year Vatuvei will be one of the first players picked for the Kiwis if fit, while Perrett will be hard to leave out if he isn’t picked at fullback first. There are several contenders for the flanks, led by the NRL’s leading tryscorer Taniela Tuiaki. Vatuvei and Tuiaki would surely represent the biggest wing combination seen in Test football, or any senior Rugby League for that matter. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Jason Nightingale, Krisnan Inu and Luke Covell are also in the mix.
Queensland: Incumbents – Darius Boyd and Israel Folau
Hodges, Inglis and Folau will fill three of the three-quarter positions available without doubt, and with Brent Tate out for the season, Boyd looks the most likely to take the last spot after a strong Origin debut in 2008. Denan Kemp shaped as a front-runner, but has lost his tryscoring touch at the Warriors. Evergreen Dragon Wendell Sailor looms as Boyd’s biggest threat after some sparkling early-season form, while Brisbane’s Steve Michaels could push for inclusion if he fixes recent handling woes.
New South Wales: Incumbents – Jarryd Hayne and Anthony Quinn
The make-up of NSW’s centre combination could have a major bearing on the wing selections for the embattled Blues. Centre hopefuls Chris Lawrence, Jarryd Hayne, Josh Morris and Joel Monaghan are all at home on the wing, and each player has the attacking potency NSW desperately needs after scoring just one try in the last two Origin matches of 2008. Newcastle flankman James McManus was rewarded with solid early-season form with a place in the 40-man NSW preliminary squad, as was Souths veteran Colin Best. Nathan Merritt also fits the bill on the attacking front and the underrated defender was an unlucky omission from the preliminary squad, while David Williams, seemingly an Origin certainty at the beginning of the year, can win a place if he rediscovers his 2008 form. Incumbent Anthony Quinn is behind the 8-ball despite a strong debut series last year, while Storm team-mate Steve Turner is destined never to play Origin again after a horror Origin debut in Game 2 last year.
CENTRES:
Australia: Incumbents – Greg Inglis and Israel Folau
Hard to see anyone but Inglis and Hodges being picked. Inglis has had a sluggish start to the year but is too good to leave out, while Hodges has been outstanding despite a chequered off-season and injury and suspension interrupting the start of his 2009 campaign.
New Zealand: Incumbents – Jerome Ropati and Simon Mannering
Injury-prone Manly centre Steve Matai appears likely to be ruled out, as he was for the World Cup final. Ropati will be a shoe-in, and may link again with Warriors team-mate Mannering, usually a back-rower, for lack of other in-form options. Mannering is a strong defender and hard runner with enough pace for the outside backs, but lacks the ability to set up his wingers. Parramatta’s Krisnan Inu and Roosters pair Iosia Soliola and Setaimata Sa all have international experience, while Perrett is more than capable of playing in the centres despite a lack of size. Newcastle’s Junior Sau is probably considered too green for Test footy, but has a tonne of potential.
Queensland: Incumbents – Greg Inglis and Brent Tate
Inglis and Hodges already! If injury were to rule out either star, Folau would immediately move in off the wing, while Darius Boyd and Steve Michaels are experienced centres. Melbourne’s Will Chambers and Maurice Blair from the Panthers are waiting in the wings should an injury crisis beset Queensland’s playing ranks.
New South Wales: Incumbents – Matt Cooper and Joel Monaghan
This shapes as the most contentious and hotly debated area of rep selection this year. NSW needs to score more points, but they also need to contain the attacking brilliance of Inglis and Hodges. If selectors decide to couple a strong defender with an exciting attacking player, Matt Cooper should retain his position. While he is no slouch with the ball in hand, it is as the game’s best defensive centre that he has made his name. Electrifying young Panther Michael Jennings has plenty of support, as does robust Wests Tigers flyer Chris Lawrence. Monaghan is still in the mix, while Luke Lewis was mentioned as a possibility by Phil Gould. A genuine darkhorse contender is St. George-Illawarra’s Beau Scott. Also a back-rower, Scott has been one of the form players in the NRL and terrorised the Broncos in their great win at Suncorp in Round 4. He is big, fast and can set up his supports. Jarryd Hayne is also a chance but has had a mixed start to 2009 with the Eels, playing much of the year at five-eighth. It could all come down to the City-Country match. Incredibly, despite publicly declaring he doesn’t want to play rep football, Jamie Lyon was selected in the preliminary squad and is a strong chance of getting picked.
FIVE-EIGHTH:
Australia: Incumbent – Darren Lockyer
Despite recent reports saying Lockyer’s spot in the rep sides is under threat, Lockyer will be No. 6 and captain for the Anzac Test. His blistering performance against Parramatta quelled the Sydney-based criticism directed towards him last week. It will be Lockyer’s 46th, putting him alongside Mal Meninga as the most-capped player in Australian Test history. Should he be unavailable, it will be a tussle between frighteningly in-form Raider Terry Campese and Gold Coast brilliant halfback Scott Prince, with Roosters’ skipper Braith Anasta a shade behind.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Benji Marshall
World Cup hero Marshall is likely to wear the No. 6 again, unless he is selected at halback, where he has been playing at club level for the Tigers – with mixed results. Marshall may have to play five-eighth due to a lack of options. World Cup halfback Nathan Fien is capable pivot, while Lance Hohaia is a former Test No. 6.
Queensland: Incumbent – Jonathon Thurston
Lockyer will make a return to the Queensland side unless selectors do the unthinkable and retain halfback duo Thurston and Prince, as has been reported in the press.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Braith Anasta
Terry Campese seems to have the edge and is in blistering form. His brilliant running, kicking and passing game could be just the tonic for the Blues floundering attack – Campese leads the NRL in 40/20s and try assists. Despite great form again in 2009, Anasta’s unenviable Origin record of three wins from nine starts will count against him. Anasta was the shock omission from the preliminary squad, but the snub is sure to spur him on in the coming weeks. Imposing Rabbitoh No. 6 John Sutton was touted as a major contender early in the year but has been quiet in recent weeks, while Newcastle star Jarrod Mullen is an option after making his Blues’ debut in 2007.
HALFBACKS:
Australia: Incumbent – Jonathon Thurston
The No. 7 jersey has created the most debate in the lead-up to selection of the Anzac Test team. It would be hard on Thurston to miss out on a start – he has consistently excelled at representative level, but Scott Prince’s form in 2009 has been irresistible, as it was last season. Thurston finally returned to form last week against the Sharks after a sluggish start to the season, and sound performances over the next two rounds should secure his coveted spot. Prince has been sensational though, and another two man-of-the-match efforts could force the selectors’ hand. The player who misses out will be a strong chance for a bench spot.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Nathan Fien
All the talk for the Kiwis’ No. 7 jersey – despite the leading hand Fien played in the World Cup triumph – surrounds the availability of the Warriors’ comeback king Stacey Jones. The NZ Test legend seems adamant he will not come out of international retirement, but has seemingly left the door ajar by telling coach Steve Kearney he will play if its an emergency. The Kiwis’ will need a bench utility if Hohaia is picked at fullback, and Fien fits the bill perfectly, leaving a spot open for Jones’ fairytale finale.
Queensland: Incumbent – Scott Prince
Prince played halfback in last year’s Origin decider with Thurston at five-eighth due to Lockyer’s unavailability. Prince went off with a broken arm in the first half, while Thurston won the match and the series for the Maroons. He was also named Man of the Series. With Lockyer back, there is room for only one of the superstar No. 7s, and Thurston deserves to be retained considering his past heroics. It will be hard to deny whoever is picked as the Australian No. 7 though, although not unprecedented. The Maroons opted for Matt Bowen at fullback for the first Origin of 2006, just a month after Karmichael Hunt made his Test debut.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Mitchell Pearce
The struggle for the NSW No. 7 jersey centres around the two men used in last year’s series – Sydney’s Pearce and Bronco Peter Wallace. Wallace appears to have his nose in front, and probably would have kept his spot for the 2008decider if not hampered by a painful testicle injury. Wallace had a stunning debut in Game 1 last year, and his tenacious defence and polished kicking and passing game are tailormade for Origin. Pearce, also a strong defender, probably has the better running game, but hasn’t been as consistent in ’09 as the Btisbane half. Jarrod Mullen has been in special form coming off the bench for the Knights and if Brian Smith gives him a regular 80 minutes he is a genuine chance. Mullen has the advantage of playing for Country, whereas Wallace and Pearce will share halfback duties for City.
FRONT ROW:
Australia: Incumbents – Brent Kite and Petero Civoniceva
Civoniceva is an absolute certainty, while Steve Price is odds-on to come back into the starting line-up for Kite after missing the World Cup final with injury. Kite is pressing for a bench spot, along with Josh Perry and Ben Hannant. Bulldogs recruit Hannant has been the form front-rower in the NRL and if the Test side is picked on form, he should grab a debut Test jumper as an interchange.
New Zealand: Incumbents – Nathan Cayless and Adam Blair
The shock representative retirement of World Cup skipper Nathan Cayless at least eases the dilemma for Kiwi selectors of choosing between the Parramatta warhorse and Roy Asotasi for the captain’s job. Asotasi is a certainty to be recalled after missing the World Cup with injury, while Blair has matured into one of the most damaging and skilful props in the NRL. Tough Warrior Sam Rapira’s form demands a spot in the 17, and 19-year old team-mate Russell Packer is a potential bolter for the squad. Fuifui Moimoi has been arguably the Eels best player in their disastrous start to the year and could come into calculations.
Queensland: Incumbents – Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva
No contest. Price and Civoniceva are miles ahead of their NRL front-row rivals, and the veterans will be again be the cornerstone of Queensland’s gameplan. The only question that remains is who will claim the bench spots. Ben Hannant thrived in the role last year and has been superb since shifting to the Bulldogs, while his former team-mates at Brisbane Nick Kenny and Dave Taylor are up to Origin standard. Raiders pair David Shillington and the experienced Scott Logan add to a burgeoning pool of front-row talent for the Maroons.
New South Wales: Incumbents – Brett White and Ben Cross
Plenty of fierce competition to be the NSW bookends. White was left out of the 40-man preliminary squad but returns to NRL action this weekend after an injury lay-off, while Newcastle tough-guy Ben Cross has been quietly anchoring the in-form Knights’ pack so far in ’09. At the start of the year Manly’s grand final-winning Kangaroo props Josh Perry and Brent Kite would have been heavy favourites for Origin selections, but times are tough at Brookvale and the Blues urgently need an in-form pack to avoid a fourth straight series defeat. Young Dragons duo Michael Weyman and Justin Poore have been outstanding under Wayne Bennett in 2009, and the good money is on at least one of the tyros making their Origin debuts. Titans’ warhorse Luke Bailey is desperate for a return to the Origin stage and is a passionate competitor, while towering Tiger and prelim squad bolter Keith Galloway is also on the selectors’ radar. Joel Clinton is finally hitting his straps with the Broncos, and is looking to make a belated Origin debut after his sole Test appearance in 2004. Willie Mason’s omission from the preliminary squad leaves him as an outsider for this year’s series after 16 consecutive matches in the sky blue.
HOOKER:
Australia: Incumbent – Cameron Smith
Smith in a canter. Already with three Tests as captain under his belt, Smith is one of the game’s dominant players, and despite the Storm’s slow start to the year, is an absolute certainty. Robbie Farah and Michael Ennis would do the job if needed, but are not genuine threats to the Storm superstar.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Thomas Leuleuai
With Super League players unavailable for the Anzac Test, World Cup-winning hooker Leuleuai won’t be at Suncorp for the rematch, but South Sydney’s Isaac Luke is a far more accomplished rake anyway. Luke came off the bench in last year’s final boilover, and should win a starting berth with his attacking brilliance and strong kicking game. Nathan Fien is a No. 9 option, and may be used in that capacity if Stacey Jones plays, in which case Luke is a certainty for the bench.
Queensland: Incumbent – Cameron Smith
Last year’s series-winning skipper Smith just has to stay fit to be selected. Nathan Friend has sped past North Queensland’s Aaron Payne as the back-up for Smith after sparkling form for the Titans in 2008-09.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Danny Buderus
After 22 consecutive games in the NSW No. 9 jumper (15 as captain), Buderus has moved on to Leeds, seemingly giving Tigers’ skipper Robbie Farah the opportunity he has been craving for three seasons. But the realisation of a dream is being threatened by his fierce rival, star Bulldogs recruit Michael Ennis. This shapes as the most neck-and-neck of the head-to-head individual selection battles. It could be decided in a tantalising six-day period when the pair oppose each other twice – firstly in NRL action, then the following weekend in City vs Country. If both of the combatants falter, Knights’ rake Isaac De Gois is waiting in the wings.
BACK ROWERS:
Australia: Incumbents – Anthony Laffranchi, Glenn Stewart and Paul Gallen
Gallen is likely to retain his spot at lock, but the decision facing selectors is whether to stick solid with the forward pack that was overrun by the Kiwis in the World Cup final. Nevertheless, Laffranchi and Stewart are the front-runners. There is a bevy of NSW back-rowers jostling for an opportunity in the starting side and on the bench, headed by Anthony Watmough, Ben Creagh, Anthony Tupou and Ryan Hoffman. Queensland’s Sam Thaiday is playing as well as any of the contenders and has a physical game capable of combating the big Kiwi forwards.
New Zealand: Incumbents – David Fa’alogo, Bronson Harrison and Jeremy Smith
One of the few areas where the Kiwis are well-stocked. Jeremy Smith was vital to NZ’s World Cup success and will be the first picked after a seamless transition to the Dragons set-up. Former Storm team-mate Sika Manu is an explosive customer and will earn a bench spot at the very least, while incumbents Fa’alogo and Harrison remain in the frame. Penrith’s devastating Frank Pritchard will be difficult to leave out, and would normally be an automatic inclusion. Simon Mannering will press hard if not picked in the centres, while Greg Eastwood has a multi-faceted game probably better suited to the bench for a Test match. Warriors prodigy Ben Matulino and impressive young Rabbitoh are possible bolters, while Setaimata Sa has been used in the back-row at the Roosters.
Queensland: Incumbents – Nate Myles, Ashley Harrison and Dallas Johnson
The Maroons have an unprecedented quantity of Origin-calibre back-rowers to choose from. Dallas Johnson has been a key member of the Queensland dynasty of the last three years and is guaranteed the lock spot (for the first game at least), but the remaining two starting jerseys and bench places are up for grabs. Nate Myles’ off-field indiscretions have put him behind the 8-ball, and Sam Thaiday seems to be first in line for the second-row. Corey Parker has been in excellent form at the Broncos, as has surprise-packet recruit Jacob Lillyman for the Warriors, while his new team-mate Michael Luck would not let anyone down and was on standby during last year’s series. Tireless Bulldogs lock David Stagg, formerly a jack-of-all-trades performer at Brisbane, has been close to the resurgent blue-and-white’s best player this season, and is pushing to add to his sole Origin jersey from 2006. Ball-playing forward Ashley Harrison was sensational in two matches for the Maroons last year, and is gaining recognition for his toughness and defensive steel – he will be difficult to ignore after his efforts in ’08.
New South Wales: Incumbents - Craig Fitzgibbon, Ryan Hoffman and Paul Gallen
Gallen picks himself and has the necessary ferocity and passion for the blue jumper – he is also the only feasible captaincy candidate besides Kurt Gidley. Fellow incumbents Fitzgibbon and Hoffman face a harder road to retain their spots however, with veteran Fitzy missing a place in the top-40 despite maintaining his evergreen 2008 form this year. Likely Test inclusions Laffranchi and Stewart are the strongest contenders, with Watmough and Creagh just a whisker behind. All four could make the NSW 17, but Trent Waterhouse and Mark Minichiello are in career-best form and have also made the preliminary squad. Cowboys’ tough-guy Luke O’Donnell is perfectly suited to Origin football and has been the backbone of his club’s recent resurgence. Alan Tongue has experienced a groundswell of support for selection this year, but his best chance is likely to be as a bench utility.
BENCH UTILITY
Australia: Incumbent – Karmichael Hunt
Kurt Gidley is generally considered the most versatile of the contenders, so will be the favourite for the role, but Hunt is in contention, as is the loser in the halfback selection duel between Prince and Thurston.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Isaac Luke
Depending on the make-up of the starting side, it will be Hohaia, Fien, Luke or Dene Halatau.
Queensland: Incumbent – Billy Slater
Slater was kept out of early exchanges by coach Meninga last year, before coming on for Hunt. Queensland may opt for this tactic again, or include Prince or Thurston in the 17.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Brett Stewart
With Stewart ruled out and Kurt Gidley a shoe-in for fullback the bench utility spot is wide open. Alan Tongue would be a popular choice, while the courageous pocket dynamo Preston Campbell has been touted as a contender. Ennis or Farah would be a valuable weapon off the bench, as would a second half such as Wallace, Pearce or Mullen.
NRLForum.com.au’s Teams
AUSTRALIA
1. Billy Slater
2. Israel Folau
3. Justin Hodges
4. Greg Inglis
5. Darius Boyd
6. Darren Lockyer ©
7. Jonathon Thurston
8. Steve Price
9. Cameron Smith
10. Petero Civoniceva
11. Anthony Laffranchi
12. Glenn Stewart
13. Paul Gallen
14. Kurt Gidley
15. Ben Hannant
16. Sam Thaiday
17. Anthony Watmough
NEW ZEALAND
1. Lance Hohaia
2. Manu Vatuvei
3. Jerome Ropati
4. Steve Matai
5. Sam Perrett
6. Benji Marshall
7. Stacey Jones
8. Roy Asotasi ©
9. Isaac Luke
10. Adam Blair
11. Simon Mannering
12. David Fa’alogo
13. Jeremy Smith
14. Nathan Fien
15. Frank Pritchard
16. Sika Manu
17. Sam Rapira
QUEENSLAND
1. Billy Slater
2. Israel Folau
3. Justin Hodges
4. Greg Inglis
5. Darius Boyd
6. Darren Lockyer ©
7. Jonathon Thurston
8. Steve Price
9. Cameron Smith
10. Petero Civoneceva
11. Sam Thaiday
12. Nate Myles
13. Dallas Johnson
14. Karmichael Hunt
15. Ben Hannant
16. Ashley Harrison
17. Dave Taylor
NEW SOUTH WALES
1. Kurt Gidley ©
2. Chris Lawrence
3. Matt Cooper
4. Michael Jennings
5. Joel Monaghan
6. Terry Campese
7. Peter Wallace
8. Michael Weyman
9. Michael Ennis
10. Brent Kite
11. Anthony Laffranchi
12. Glenn Stewart
13. Paul Gallen
14. Robbie Farah
15. Justin Poore
16. Anthony Watmough
17. Ben Creagh
Post who you think should be in the rep teams in the comments section
With just under two weeks until the Anzac Test and City v Country clashes and six weeks until State of Origin I, its time to look the intriguing round of selection table decisions coming up. There are spots still up for grabs in the Australian and New Zealand Test sides, the Queensland side generally picks itself, but it is the NSW squad – on the verge of becoming the first side in Origin history to lose four straight series – that has sparked the most debate.
FULLBACK:
Australia: Incumbent – Billy Slater
Although he’s not quite blitzing the competition in the same manner as last year, Slater appears to be a walk-up start for the Kangaroos barring injury. The Storm custodian will be desperate to erase the memories of 2008’s World Cup final, where he gifted Benji Marshall a crucial try in the 34-20 loss to NZ. Karmichael Hunt’s virtuoso display on Friday night keeps the acid on Slater, but he has been in solid if not spectacular form behind a spluttering Storm outfit.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Lance Hohaia
Hohaia is guaranteed a spot in the Kiwis’ 17 after his World Cup heroics, but he may occupy the bench utility spot. The World Champion’s other option in the No. 1 jersey is underrated Rooster Sam Perrett, currently filling in admirably for the injured Anthony Minichiello.
Queensland: Incumbent – Karmichael Hunt
Although Slater was initially selected at fullback, coach Mal Meninga opted to start the courageous Hunt in the final two Origins of 2008, with Billy coming off the bench. Only a repeat of this ploy will deny Slater the starting No. 1 spot, despite Hunt’s fearless and physical game suiting Origin perfectly.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Kurt Gidley
WINGERS:
Australia: Incumbents – Joel Monaghan and David Williams
The likely pairing of Hodges and Inglis in the centres means one wing spot will be occupied by Israel Folau, where he has predominantly been used by the Broncos. The other wing is one of the few positions still there for the taking. Monaghan has been solid for the Raiders, while 2008 sensation Williams has been hampered by injury and appears a longshot unless he produces something spectacular in the next fortnight. Another contenders include Darius Boyd, who has been brilliant for St. George, but incumbent Williams appears to be a longshot after an injury-interrupted start to the season.
New Zealand: Incumbents – Sam Perrett and Manu Vatuvei
2008 International Winger of the Year Vatuvei will be one of the first players picked for the Kiwis if fit, while Perrett will be hard to leave out if he isn’t picked at fullback first. There are several contenders for the flanks, led by the NRL’s leading tryscorer Taniela Tuiaki. Vatuvei and Tuiaki would surely represent the biggest wing combination seen in Test football, or any senior Rugby League for that matter. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Jason Nightingale, Krisnan Inu and Luke Covell are also in the mix.
Queensland: Incumbents – Darius Boyd and Israel Folau
Hodges, Inglis and Folau will fill three of the three-quarter positions available without doubt, and with Brent Tate out for the season, Boyd looks the most likely to take the last spot after a strong Origin debut in 2008. Denan Kemp shaped as a front-runner, but has lost his tryscoring touch at the Warriors. Evergreen Dragon Wendell Sailor looms as Boyd’s biggest threat after some sparkling early-season form, while Brisbane’s Steve Michaels could push for inclusion if he fixes recent handling woes.
New South Wales: Incumbents – Jarryd Hayne and Anthony Quinn
The make-up of NSW’s centre combination could have a major bearing on the wing selections for the embattled Blues. Centre hopefuls Chris Lawrence, Jarryd Hayne, Josh Morris and Joel Monaghan are all at home on the wing, and each player has the attacking potency NSW desperately needs after scoring just one try in the last two Origin matches of 2008. Newcastle flankman James McManus was rewarded with solid early-season form with a place in the 40-man NSW preliminary squad, as was Souths veteran Colin Best. Nathan Merritt also fits the bill on the attacking front and the underrated defender was an unlucky omission from the preliminary squad, while David Williams, seemingly an Origin certainty at the beginning of the year, can win a place if he rediscovers his 2008 form. Incumbent Anthony Quinn is behind the 8-ball despite a strong debut series last year, while Storm team-mate Steve Turner is destined never to play Origin again after a horror Origin debut in Game 2 last year.
CENTRES:
Australia: Incumbents – Greg Inglis and Israel Folau
Hard to see anyone but Inglis and Hodges being picked. Inglis has had a sluggish start to the year but is too good to leave out, while Hodges has been outstanding despite a chequered off-season and injury and suspension interrupting the start of his 2009 campaign.
New Zealand: Incumbents – Jerome Ropati and Simon Mannering
Injury-prone Manly centre Steve Matai appears likely to be ruled out, as he was for the World Cup final. Ropati will be a shoe-in, and may link again with Warriors team-mate Mannering, usually a back-rower, for lack of other in-form options. Mannering is a strong defender and hard runner with enough pace for the outside backs, but lacks the ability to set up his wingers. Parramatta’s Krisnan Inu and Roosters pair Iosia Soliola and Setaimata Sa all have international experience, while Perrett is more than capable of playing in the centres despite a lack of size. Newcastle’s Junior Sau is probably considered too green for Test footy, but has a tonne of potential.
Queensland: Incumbents – Greg Inglis and Brent Tate
Inglis and Hodges already! If injury were to rule out either star, Folau would immediately move in off the wing, while Darius Boyd and Steve Michaels are experienced centres. Melbourne’s Will Chambers and Maurice Blair from the Panthers are waiting in the wings should an injury crisis beset Queensland’s playing ranks.
New South Wales: Incumbents – Matt Cooper and Joel Monaghan
This shapes as the most contentious and hotly debated area of rep selection this year. NSW needs to score more points, but they also need to contain the attacking brilliance of Inglis and Hodges. If selectors decide to couple a strong defender with an exciting attacking player, Matt Cooper should retain his position. While he is no slouch with the ball in hand, it is as the game’s best defensive centre that he has made his name. Electrifying young Panther Michael Jennings has plenty of support, as does robust Wests Tigers flyer Chris Lawrence. Monaghan is still in the mix, while Luke Lewis was mentioned as a possibility by Phil Gould. A genuine darkhorse contender is St. George-Illawarra’s Beau Scott. Also a back-rower, Scott has been one of the form players in the NRL and terrorised the Broncos in their great win at Suncorp in Round 4. He is big, fast and can set up his supports. Jarryd Hayne is also a chance but has had a mixed start to 2009 with the Eels, playing much of the year at five-eighth. It could all come down to the City-Country match. Incredibly, despite publicly declaring he doesn’t want to play rep football, Jamie Lyon was selected in the preliminary squad and is a strong chance of getting picked.
FIVE-EIGHTH:
Australia: Incumbent – Darren Lockyer
Despite recent reports saying Lockyer’s spot in the rep sides is under threat, Lockyer will be No. 6 and captain for the Anzac Test. His blistering performance against Parramatta quelled the Sydney-based criticism directed towards him last week. It will be Lockyer’s 46th, putting him alongside Mal Meninga as the most-capped player in Australian Test history. Should he be unavailable, it will be a tussle between frighteningly in-form Raider Terry Campese and Gold Coast brilliant halfback Scott Prince, with Roosters’ skipper Braith Anasta a shade behind.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Benji Marshall
World Cup hero Marshall is likely to wear the No. 6 again, unless he is selected at halback, where he has been playing at club level for the Tigers – with mixed results. Marshall may have to play five-eighth due to a lack of options. World Cup halfback Nathan Fien is capable pivot, while Lance Hohaia is a former Test No. 6.
Queensland: Incumbent – Jonathon Thurston
Lockyer will make a return to the Queensland side unless selectors do the unthinkable and retain halfback duo Thurston and Prince, as has been reported in the press.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Braith Anasta
Terry Campese seems to have the edge and is in blistering form. His brilliant running, kicking and passing game could be just the tonic for the Blues floundering attack – Campese leads the NRL in 40/20s and try assists. Despite great form again in 2009, Anasta’s unenviable Origin record of three wins from nine starts will count against him. Anasta was the shock omission from the preliminary squad, but the snub is sure to spur him on in the coming weeks. Imposing Rabbitoh No. 6 John Sutton was touted as a major contender early in the year but has been quiet in recent weeks, while Newcastle star Jarrod Mullen is an option after making his Blues’ debut in 2007.
HALFBACKS:
Australia: Incumbent – Jonathon Thurston
The No. 7 jersey has created the most debate in the lead-up to selection of the Anzac Test team. It would be hard on Thurston to miss out on a start – he has consistently excelled at representative level, but Scott Prince’s form in 2009 has been irresistible, as it was last season. Thurston finally returned to form last week against the Sharks after a sluggish start to the season, and sound performances over the next two rounds should secure his coveted spot. Prince has been sensational though, and another two man-of-the-match efforts could force the selectors’ hand. The player who misses out will be a strong chance for a bench spot.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Nathan Fien
All the talk for the Kiwis’ No. 7 jersey – despite the leading hand Fien played in the World Cup triumph – surrounds the availability of the Warriors’ comeback king Stacey Jones. The NZ Test legend seems adamant he will not come out of international retirement, but has seemingly left the door ajar by telling coach Steve Kearney he will play if its an emergency. The Kiwis’ will need a bench utility if Hohaia is picked at fullback, and Fien fits the bill perfectly, leaving a spot open for Jones’ fairytale finale.
Queensland: Incumbent – Scott Prince
Prince played halfback in last year’s Origin decider with Thurston at five-eighth due to Lockyer’s unavailability. Prince went off with a broken arm in the first half, while Thurston won the match and the series for the Maroons. He was also named Man of the Series. With Lockyer back, there is room for only one of the superstar No. 7s, and Thurston deserves to be retained considering his past heroics. It will be hard to deny whoever is picked as the Australian No. 7 though, although not unprecedented. The Maroons opted for Matt Bowen at fullback for the first Origin of 2006, just a month after Karmichael Hunt made his Test debut.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Mitchell Pearce
The struggle for the NSW No. 7 jersey centres around the two men used in last year’s series – Sydney’s Pearce and Bronco Peter Wallace. Wallace appears to have his nose in front, and probably would have kept his spot for the 2008decider if not hampered by a painful testicle injury. Wallace had a stunning debut in Game 1 last year, and his tenacious defence and polished kicking and passing game are tailormade for Origin. Pearce, also a strong defender, probably has the better running game, but hasn’t been as consistent in ’09 as the Btisbane half. Jarrod Mullen has been in special form coming off the bench for the Knights and if Brian Smith gives him a regular 80 minutes he is a genuine chance. Mullen has the advantage of playing for Country, whereas Wallace and Pearce will share halfback duties for City.
FRONT ROW:
Australia: Incumbents – Brent Kite and Petero Civoniceva
Civoniceva is an absolute certainty, while Steve Price is odds-on to come back into the starting line-up for Kite after missing the World Cup final with injury. Kite is pressing for a bench spot, along with Josh Perry and Ben Hannant. Bulldogs recruit Hannant has been the form front-rower in the NRL and if the Test side is picked on form, he should grab a debut Test jumper as an interchange.
New Zealand: Incumbents – Nathan Cayless and Adam Blair
The shock representative retirement of World Cup skipper Nathan Cayless at least eases the dilemma for Kiwi selectors of choosing between the Parramatta warhorse and Roy Asotasi for the captain’s job. Asotasi is a certainty to be recalled after missing the World Cup with injury, while Blair has matured into one of the most damaging and skilful props in the NRL. Tough Warrior Sam Rapira’s form demands a spot in the 17, and 19-year old team-mate Russell Packer is a potential bolter for the squad. Fuifui Moimoi has been arguably the Eels best player in their disastrous start to the year and could come into calculations.
Queensland: Incumbents – Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva
No contest. Price and Civoniceva are miles ahead of their NRL front-row rivals, and the veterans will be again be the cornerstone of Queensland’s gameplan. The only question that remains is who will claim the bench spots. Ben Hannant thrived in the role last year and has been superb since shifting to the Bulldogs, while his former team-mates at Brisbane Nick Kenny and Dave Taylor are up to Origin standard. Raiders pair David Shillington and the experienced Scott Logan add to a burgeoning pool of front-row talent for the Maroons.
New South Wales: Incumbents – Brett White and Ben Cross
Plenty of fierce competition to be the NSW bookends. White was left out of the 40-man preliminary squad but returns to NRL action this weekend after an injury lay-off, while Newcastle tough-guy Ben Cross has been quietly anchoring the in-form Knights’ pack so far in ’09. At the start of the year Manly’s grand final-winning Kangaroo props Josh Perry and Brent Kite would have been heavy favourites for Origin selections, but times are tough at Brookvale and the Blues urgently need an in-form pack to avoid a fourth straight series defeat. Young Dragons duo Michael Weyman and Justin Poore have been outstanding under Wayne Bennett in 2009, and the good money is on at least one of the tyros making their Origin debuts. Titans’ warhorse Luke Bailey is desperate for a return to the Origin stage and is a passionate competitor, while towering Tiger and prelim squad bolter Keith Galloway is also on the selectors’ radar. Joel Clinton is finally hitting his straps with the Broncos, and is looking to make a belated Origin debut after his sole Test appearance in 2004. Willie Mason’s omission from the preliminary squad leaves him as an outsider for this year’s series after 16 consecutive matches in the sky blue.
HOOKER:
Australia: Incumbent – Cameron Smith
Smith in a canter. Already with three Tests as captain under his belt, Smith is one of the game’s dominant players, and despite the Storm’s slow start to the year, is an absolute certainty. Robbie Farah and Michael Ennis would do the job if needed, but are not genuine threats to the Storm superstar.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Thomas Leuleuai
With Super League players unavailable for the Anzac Test, World Cup-winning hooker Leuleuai won’t be at Suncorp for the rematch, but South Sydney’s Isaac Luke is a far more accomplished rake anyway. Luke came off the bench in last year’s final boilover, and should win a starting berth with his attacking brilliance and strong kicking game. Nathan Fien is a No. 9 option, and may be used in that capacity if Stacey Jones plays, in which case Luke is a certainty for the bench.
Queensland: Incumbent – Cameron Smith
Last year’s series-winning skipper Smith just has to stay fit to be selected. Nathan Friend has sped past North Queensland’s Aaron Payne as the back-up for Smith after sparkling form for the Titans in 2008-09.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Danny Buderus
After 22 consecutive games in the NSW No. 9 jumper (15 as captain), Buderus has moved on to Leeds, seemingly giving Tigers’ skipper Robbie Farah the opportunity he has been craving for three seasons. But the realisation of a dream is being threatened by his fierce rival, star Bulldogs recruit Michael Ennis. This shapes as the most neck-and-neck of the head-to-head individual selection battles. It could be decided in a tantalising six-day period when the pair oppose each other twice – firstly in NRL action, then the following weekend in City vs Country. If both of the combatants falter, Knights’ rake Isaac De Gois is waiting in the wings.
BACK ROWERS:
Australia: Incumbents – Anthony Laffranchi, Glenn Stewart and Paul Gallen
Gallen is likely to retain his spot at lock, but the decision facing selectors is whether to stick solid with the forward pack that was overrun by the Kiwis in the World Cup final. Nevertheless, Laffranchi and Stewart are the front-runners. There is a bevy of NSW back-rowers jostling for an opportunity in the starting side and on the bench, headed by Anthony Watmough, Ben Creagh, Anthony Tupou and Ryan Hoffman. Queensland’s Sam Thaiday is playing as well as any of the contenders and has a physical game capable of combating the big Kiwi forwards.
New Zealand: Incumbents – David Fa’alogo, Bronson Harrison and Jeremy Smith
One of the few areas where the Kiwis are well-stocked. Jeremy Smith was vital to NZ’s World Cup success and will be the first picked after a seamless transition to the Dragons set-up. Former Storm team-mate Sika Manu is an explosive customer and will earn a bench spot at the very least, while incumbents Fa’alogo and Harrison remain in the frame. Penrith’s devastating Frank Pritchard will be difficult to leave out, and would normally be an automatic inclusion. Simon Mannering will press hard if not picked in the centres, while Greg Eastwood has a multi-faceted game probably better suited to the bench for a Test match. Warriors prodigy Ben Matulino and impressive young Rabbitoh are possible bolters, while Setaimata Sa has been used in the back-row at the Roosters.
Queensland: Incumbents – Nate Myles, Ashley Harrison and Dallas Johnson
The Maroons have an unprecedented quantity of Origin-calibre back-rowers to choose from. Dallas Johnson has been a key member of the Queensland dynasty of the last three years and is guaranteed the lock spot (for the first game at least), but the remaining two starting jerseys and bench places are up for grabs. Nate Myles’ off-field indiscretions have put him behind the 8-ball, and Sam Thaiday seems to be first in line for the second-row. Corey Parker has been in excellent form at the Broncos, as has surprise-packet recruit Jacob Lillyman for the Warriors, while his new team-mate Michael Luck would not let anyone down and was on standby during last year’s series. Tireless Bulldogs lock David Stagg, formerly a jack-of-all-trades performer at Brisbane, has been close to the resurgent blue-and-white’s best player this season, and is pushing to add to his sole Origin jersey from 2006. Ball-playing forward Ashley Harrison was sensational in two matches for the Maroons last year, and is gaining recognition for his toughness and defensive steel – he will be difficult to ignore after his efforts in ’08.
New South Wales: Incumbents - Craig Fitzgibbon, Ryan Hoffman and Paul Gallen
Gallen picks himself and has the necessary ferocity and passion for the blue jumper – he is also the only feasible captaincy candidate besides Kurt Gidley. Fellow incumbents Fitzgibbon and Hoffman face a harder road to retain their spots however, with veteran Fitzy missing a place in the top-40 despite maintaining his evergreen 2008 form this year. Likely Test inclusions Laffranchi and Stewart are the strongest contenders, with Watmough and Creagh just a whisker behind. All four could make the NSW 17, but Trent Waterhouse and Mark Minichiello are in career-best form and have also made the preliminary squad. Cowboys’ tough-guy Luke O’Donnell is perfectly suited to Origin football and has been the backbone of his club’s recent resurgence. Alan Tongue has experienced a groundswell of support for selection this year, but his best chance is likely to be as a bench utility.
BENCH UTILITY
Australia: Incumbent – Karmichael Hunt
Kurt Gidley is generally considered the most versatile of the contenders, so will be the favourite for the role, but Hunt is in contention, as is the loser in the halfback selection duel between Prince and Thurston.
New Zealand: Incumbent – Isaac Luke
Depending on the make-up of the starting side, it will be Hohaia, Fien, Luke or Dene Halatau.
Queensland: Incumbent – Billy Slater
Slater was kept out of early exchanges by coach Meninga last year, before coming on for Hunt. Queensland may opt for this tactic again, or include Prince or Thurston in the 17.
New South Wales: Incumbent – Brett Stewart
With Stewart ruled out and Kurt Gidley a shoe-in for fullback the bench utility spot is wide open. Alan Tongue would be a popular choice, while the courageous pocket dynamo Preston Campbell has been touted as a contender. Ennis or Farah would be a valuable weapon off the bench, as would a second half such as Wallace, Pearce or Mullen.
NRLForum.com.au’s Teams
AUSTRALIA
1. Billy Slater
2. Israel Folau
3. Justin Hodges
4. Greg Inglis
5. Darius Boyd
6. Darren Lockyer ©
7. Jonathon Thurston
8. Steve Price
9. Cameron Smith
10. Petero Civoniceva
11. Anthony Laffranchi
12. Glenn Stewart
13. Paul Gallen
14. Kurt Gidley
15. Ben Hannant
16. Sam Thaiday
17. Anthony Watmough
NEW ZEALAND
1. Lance Hohaia
2. Manu Vatuvei
3. Jerome Ropati
4. Steve Matai
5. Sam Perrett
6. Benji Marshall
7. Stacey Jones
8. Roy Asotasi ©
9. Isaac Luke
10. Adam Blair
11. Simon Mannering
12. David Fa’alogo
13. Jeremy Smith
14. Nathan Fien
15. Frank Pritchard
16. Sika Manu
17. Sam Rapira
QUEENSLAND
1. Billy Slater
2. Israel Folau
3. Justin Hodges
4. Greg Inglis
5. Darius Boyd
6. Darren Lockyer ©
7. Jonathon Thurston
8. Steve Price
9. Cameron Smith
10. Petero Civoneceva
11. Sam Thaiday
12. Nate Myles
13. Dallas Johnson
14. Karmichael Hunt
15. Ben Hannant
16. Ashley Harrison
17. Dave Taylor
NEW SOUTH WALES
1. Kurt Gidley ©
2. Chris Lawrence
3. Matt Cooper
4. Michael Jennings
5. Joel Monaghan
6. Terry Campese
7. Peter Wallace
8. Michael Weyman
9. Michael Ennis
10. Brent Kite
11. Anthony Laffranchi
12. Glenn Stewart
13. Paul Gallen
14. Robbie Farah
15. Justin Poore
16. Anthony Watmough
17. Ben Creagh
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