NSW State of Origin Team Faces Major Injuries
Laurie Daley, the coach of the New South Wales (NSW) team, is dealing with a series of challenges as the State of Origin series approaches. One of the most significant issues is the injury to Payne Haas, who has joined the growing list of injured players in the NSW squad. Haas was forced off during the Broncos’ 21-20 victory over the Wests Tigers on Saturday night. He was seen wearing a brace in the changing rooms after the match, and subsequent scans have confirmed a Grade 3 MCL sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear.
The typical recovery time for such an injury is between six to eight weeks, which raises serious doubts about Haas’s availability for Game 1 of the State of Origin series. There is also a possibility he could miss Game 2. With only five weeks until the first game, Haas will need to work quickly to return to the field. However, given his history of playing through injuries and recovering swiftly, there is hope that he might still be available for the crucial matches.
Additional Injuries and Concerns
This latest setback comes on the heels of news that Tom Trbojevic, the Manly fullback, may be sidelined for up to two months due to another hamstring injury. This marks the eighth hamstring injury of his career, and there are concerns that this one could be the worst yet. If the injury proves to be as severe as feared, Trbojevic could be out for as long as eight weeks, which would rule him out of both Origin games.
Haas and Trbojevic are now part of a growing list of NSW players in doubt for Game 1. Liam Martin and Max King are also uncertain, although Stephen Crichton appears to be on the mend and could make an appearance for the Bulldogs next week.
Queensland’s Form and Suspension Issues
On the Queensland side, Billy Slater is also facing difficult decisions as he prepares for the State of Origin series. The captain, Cameron Munster, has been in poor form for the Melbourne Storm, who have lost five consecutive matches. This has led to speculation that players like Ezra Mam and Sam Walker could be considered as potential replacements if Munster does not improve his performance.
Valentine Holmes, the incumbent winger, is unlikely to be selected after another disappointing performance in the recent match against Souths. Holmes missed a staggering 10 tackles, allowing Latrell Mitchell and Alex Johnston to dominate the game. Although Holmes played all three Origin games last year, his form has been inconsistent, and players like Jaxon Purdue and Murray Taulagi could be in line for selection instead.
Jaydn Su’A’s Suspension
Meanwhile, Jaydn Su’A, a key player for the Dragons and Queensland, has been suspended for three games after being sent off for a high hit on Cameron Murray. Su’A shoulder-charged Murray directly in the face, resulting in a Grade 3 charge from the match review committee. Despite his strong performances this season, Su’A will now be on the sidelines for the upcoming matches against the Roosters, Knights, and Panthers.
Due to the Dragons’ bye in Round 9, Su’A will not play again before the teams for Origin 1 are finalized. This suspension poses a challenge for him as he looks to regain his spot in the Queensland team. He has played six Origin games for the Maroons, with his last appearance coming in 2024. However, his absence from the field could make it difficult for him to secure a place in the upcoming series.
