Every year, when the State of Origin teams are named, it feels like déjà vu for fans — a mix of confusion, frustration, and outright disbelief. Some selections make perfect sense, others leave supporters scratching their heads and wondering: What the heck are the coaches thinking?
And while Queensland tends to follow a consistent formula — form, big game temperament, and incumbent combinations — New South Wales continues to be a breeding ground for suspicion, whispers of behind-the-scenes politics, and club-driven agendas.
Corey Horsburgh looks to move the ball for the Raiders.
Queensland: Picking on Performance, as Usual
Let’s start with Queensland. They rarely deviate from a simple selection formula that has brought them so much success: reward form, back proven performers, and maintain continuity.
Still, even in the Maroons camp, there were a few head-turners:
- 26% of fans were stunned by the selection of Robert Toia at centre — a bolter most didn’t see coming.
- 23% flagged the omission of Corey Horsburgh, a player many believed had earned his spot through sheer grit and consistency.
- 15% were puzzled by Tom Deardon’s bench role, while 13% questioned why Dane Gagai – one of the most reliable Origin performers – was overlooked.
Other notable omissions like David Fifita (5%), Selwyn Cobbo (3%), and Ezra Mam (2%) sparked mild debate, but none matched the surprise factor of the Toia call-up.
Terrell May in action for the Tigers – looking powerful in defence or running with the ball.
New South Wales: Selections or Favouritism?
Then there’s New South Wales. It’s never just about form. There always seems to be a layer of murky decision-making — favouritism, club loyalty, or dare we say it… politics?
According to a recent Fans Have Your Say app poll:
- 27% were shocked that Terrell May, a top-3 Dally M points scorer this season, was left out altogether.
- 16% questioned Mitchell Moses being selected over Jarome Luai, despite his strong West Tigers form and Origin resume.
- 13% couldn’t believe Reece Robson was picked at Hooker instead of Api Koroisau, who’s been in stellar form.
More fan frustrations:
- Keaon Koloamatangi’s omission (9%) despite a dominant season.
- Brian To’o’s selection after injury (10%) and Zac Lomax returning straight into the side (2%) raised eyebrows.
- Dylan Edwards over James Tedesco or Papenhuyzen at fullback (3%) was seen by some as a risk, even if his form has been solid.
And then there’s the continued snubbing of Tigers players. Despite having three standouts — Terrell May, Api Koroisau, and even a revitalized Luai — the club once again finds itself underrepresented. Fans are asking whether there’s an unwritten rule against rewarding standout performances from struggling clubs.
Is Club Politics Influencing Selection?
Many fans believe so. The idea that certain clubs hold sway — promising players, “Stick with us and you’ll get rep honours” — continues to fester. It’s no secret some players seem to land Origin jumpers despite lukewarm club form, while others busting their guts every week are overlooked.
Fans are increasingly asking:
- Are powerful people behind the scenes pushing certain names?
- Are rep jerseys being used as bargaining chips in contract negotiations?
- Do some clubs have more pull than others?
Unfortunately, where there’s smoke, there’s often fire — and in NSW, the smoke is thick.
Laurie Daley’s past selection decisions still fuel fan suspicions that politics, not performance, can influence who wears the Blues jerseys
What Should Determine Origin Selection?
According to fans the selection criteria should be clear and fair:
- Current form – reward those playing well now.
- Proven Origin ability – if they’ve performed before, back them again.
- Team combinations and synergy – players who click with key teammates.
- Big-game mentality – the ability to handle pressure when it matters most.
It’s not rocket science. But when selections deviate from this framework, fans can’t help but wonder — what else is going on?
Have Your Say — Join the Conversation
The Fans Have Your Say app is giving everyday rugby league fans a voice. No trolls. No arguing in the comments. Just quick polls and instant results.
Download the app now on Google Play or the Apple Store — and make your voice count. The State of Origin Selections & Omissions Polls will be running for another week. Get involved, see where you agree (or disagree), and be part of the conversation that shapes the game’s biggest talking points.
Because fans aren’t stupid. We watch the games. We see who’s firing. And we know when something smells off.
It’s time for transparency in Origin selections — and it starts with the fans.
