State of Origin is upon us once again, and with it comes the annual speculation about who might make their debut for the Queensland Maroons. This year, several players have emerged as potential bolters, each bringing their own unique skills and potential to the table. Here's a breakdown of the top contenders, along with my personal insights and opinions.
Braydon Trindall: The Kicking Playmaker
Braydon Trindall is a player who has been knocking on the Origin door for a few years now. His strong kicking game and high attacking intelligence make him a strong contender for the halves alongside Cameron Munster. Trindall's ability to transition into the representative arena is a key strength, and his previous recognition by coach Billy Slater as someone to watch further cements his potential. Personally, I think Trindall's consistency and versatility make him a strong candidate for a debut, especially if he can maintain his current form.
Briton Nikora: The Versatile Back-rower
Nikora, a 15-time New Zealand international, is set to make his long-awaited debut for the Maroons. His versatility, as evidenced by his ability to play the X-factor role off the interchange bench, is a significant advantage. While he could slot into the starting back-row, his impact in that role is undeniable. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for Nikora to be a game-changer, especially with his strong connection to the Queensland culture and history. In my opinion, his eligibility under the new rules and his impressive form make him a strong contender for a starting spot.
Cooper Bai: The Destructive Runner
Cooper Bai, the son of Marcus Bai, is a favorite to claim the Dally M Rookie of the Year award. His destructive runs in the middle of the field and ability to rack up post-contact metres are impressive. Bai's representation of the Under-19s Queensland Maroons in 2025 further cements his potential. While he may be the least experienced on this list, his impact off the interchange bench could be significant. What many people don't realize is that Bai's natural talent and physical attributes make him a player who could turn a game in an instant.
Ezra Mam: The X-factor Five-eighth
Mam, already holding a brilliant combination with Reece Walsh and Patrick Carrigan, was named as the Maroons' 18th man for Game Two of last year's series. His potential to be used in the halves or off the interchange bench brings an X-factor to the team. Mam's ability to rise to the occasion and his dream of playing for the Maroons make him a strong contender. If you take a step back and think about it, his defensive reads and overall performance could be a game-changer, especially if he can maintain his current form.
Heilum Luki: The Damaging Back-rower
Luki, a genuine contender in the sights of coach Billy Slater, has been at his damaging best since returning to the field after an ACL rupture. His experience around the Origin scene and his desire to be a part of the squad make him a strong candidate. Luki's focus on his game and his ability to keep building each week are key strengths. In my opinion, his physical attributes and performance make him a player who could be a game-changer in the back-row.
Jake Clifford: The In-form Playmaker
Jake Clifford, one of the in-form players of the NRL, has emerged as a shock candidate for the No.7 jersey. His impressive statistics, including five tries, seven line-breaks, and strong kicking, make him a strong contender. Clifford's ability to provide line-break assists and try assists further cements his potential. While he may not be the star player, his consistency and ability to do a job make him a valuable asset. What this really suggests is that Clifford's form and versatility could be a game-changer for the Maroons.
Jaxon Purdue: The Versatile Utility Player
Jaxon Purdue, a versatile player who can play in multiple positions, is a chance to be named by coach Billy Slater. His ability to change a match in an instant and his blistering speed and tackle-breaking ability make him a strong contender. With his form at the Cowboys and his potential to be a game-changer, Purdue is a player to watch. If you take a step back and think about it, his versatility and impact could be significant for the Maroons.
Jojo Fifita: The X-factor Outside Back
Jojo Fifita, known for his X-factor ability, has rocketed into contention for the series-opener. His potential to slot onto the wing or in the centres, combined with his strong connection to the Queensland culture, makes him a strong candidate. Fifita's close relationship with coach Billy Slater, through his former assistant Josh Hannay, further cements his potential. In my opinion, his natural talent and physical attributes make him a player who could be a game-changer for the Maroons.
Kulikefu Finefeuiaki: The Versatile Back-rower
Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, despite being born in New Zealand, is all Queenslander at heart. His form with the Dolphins and his close call for selection last year make him a strong contender. Finefeuiaki's ability to be a like-for-like replacement for Jeremiah Nanai and his versatility make him a valuable asset. While he may have been born in New Zealand, his connection to Queensland and his performance make him a player to watch.
Lachlan Hubner: The Consistent Forward
Lachlan Hubner, the most surprising player on this list, epitomizes what a Queensland player is. His consistency and dedication to being his best make him a strong contender. Hubner's ability to deliver week in, week out for the Rabbitohs is impressive. In my opinion, his consistency and performance make him a player who could be a game-changer for the Maroons.
Max Plath: The Versatile Forward
Max Plath, widely tipped for an Origin debut, is made for the representative arena with his toughness and versatility. His ability to play multiple positions in the forwards and his backing from former icons and current players make him a strong contender. Plath's natural talent and physical attributes make him a player who could be a game-changer for the Maroons.
Sam Walker: The Elite Kicker
Sam Walker, an elite kicker with natural attacking flair and vision, has emerged as the leading contender to replace Tom Dearden in the halves. His ability to turn around his form and his performance for the Sydney Roosters make him a strong candidate. While he may have had a rocky start to the season, his potential to be a game-changer for the Maroons is undeniable.
