The pressure is mounting on NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley as he stares down one of the most difficult decisions of his State of Origin coaching career. With Game 1 of the Origin series looming, Daley must choose between form, loyalty, and future potential — and fans across New South Wales are divided over what he should do.
The biggest headache surrounds the halves pairing. Incumbents Mitchell Moses and Jarome Luai have been solid in past campaigns, but their recent club form has been patchy at best. Moses is returning from injury and hasn’t looked at his sharpest, while Luai’s performances have been inconsistent for the Panthers. This has opened the door for rising stars like Nicho Hynes and Matt Burton, both of whom have impressed with consistent, match-winning displays in the NRL.
Hynes, in particular, is pushing hard for selection. The Cronulla playmaker has shown superb game management and flair this season, and many believe he deserves a crack at Origin redemption after being controversially benched early in his debut series last year. Burton, meanwhile, offers versatility and a booming boot that could be key in high-pressure moments.
Adding to Daley’s dilemma is the looming return of veteran James Tedesco. While still a fan favorite, Tedesco’s form has dipped, and Reece Walsh or Dylan Edwards could provide more spark and pace at the back. Dropping Tedesco would be a massive call — but one that Daley might have to make if he wants to build a winning team around form, not sentiment.
Then there’s the question of forwards. With several top-tier enforcers like Payne Haas and Cameron Murray nursing niggling injuries, Daley must weigh the risk of carrying underdone stars against the reward of their experience and physical presence.
The NSW coach has always emphasized loyalty and culture, but this time, fans are demanding results — and perhaps, change. After losing the last series, Daley knows another defeat could be the end of the road.
Whatever decision he makes, one thing is clear: Laurie Daley faces a selection puzzle that could define not just the series, but his legacy. Stay tuned — this Origin could be the most explosive yet