Key Players Escape Banning, Boosting Origin Hopes
Several rugby league stars have found relief after escaping potential bans that could have affected their chances of being selected for the State of Origin series. Cam Murray and Campbell Graham, both from South Sydney Rabbitohs, are among those who have been given a reprieve, while Selwyn Cobbo of the Dolphins is also in the running for a Queensland recall.
Cam Murray Avoids Charge, Secures Origin Spot
Cam Murray, the South Sydney skipper, was put on report for a potential hip-drop tackle during a recent match against the Gold Coast Titans. However, the Match Review Committee (MRC) decided there was no case to answer, allowing Murray to avoid a charge. This decision has come as a huge relief for the player, who admitted it would have been devastating if he had been ruled out of the Origin contention.
“I’d be sad about it, for sure,” Murray said. “I love playing in the NSW jersey, so it would be disappointing.” With his strong performances this season, Murray is considered a lock for the NSW squad, and this reprieve ensures he remains in the mix for the upcoming series.
Campbell Graham Faces Fine but Remains in Contention
Campbell Graham, another Souths teammate, was charged by the MRC for a trip on Herbie Farnworth before scoring a try for the Dolphins. He has escaped a ban but faces a $750 fine, which increases to $1,000 if he challenges the decision and loses. Despite this, Graham remains in contention for an Origin call-up, with a wing spot up for grabs in the NSW squad.
Graham has started the season strongly with Souths, and his performance could make him a valuable addition to the Blues lineup. His ability to contribute on the field has kept his hopes alive for selection in the upcoming Origin series.
Selwyn Cobbo’s Relief After Escaping Charge
Selwyn Cobbo, the Dolphins star, was placed on report for a dangerous throw on Graham during Friday night’s match. However, the MRC determined that the tackle did not warrant a charge, providing a significant boost to Cobbo’s Origin hopes.
Cobbo, who has been a key player for the Maroons in the past, is now firmly in the running to return to the Origin arena for the first time since Game 3 of the 2024 series. With Xavier Coates still recovering from an Achilles injury and other Maroons players like Valentine Holmes and Gehamat Shibasaki struggling with form, Cobbo’s performance this season has made him a strong candidate for selection.
Strong Performance Keeps Cobbo in the Running
Cobbo delivered another impressive showing against Souths, recording 153 run metres and six tackle busts alongside his try. His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed, and with Slater looking to build a competitive squad, Cobbo’s chances of earning a spot in the Queensland team are looking good.
Slater handed Cobbo his Origin debut in 2022, and the 23-year-old has shown his value on the field, scoring two tries in his previous six appearances for Queensland. If selected, Cobbo could provide a much-needed spark to the Maroons’ attack.
Final Thoughts
With several key players avoiding bans and maintaining their eligibility for the Origin series, fans can look forward to an exciting contest between New South Wales and Queensland. The decisions made by the MRC have ensured that the best talent is available for selection, and the upcoming matches promise to be fiercely contested. As Laurie Daley prepares to announce his NSW squad, all eyes will be on the players who have managed to stay in the game and keep their hopes alive.
