The 2026 State of Origin series is in full swing, and with it, the drama and intrigue. As the teams gear up for Game II, the focus is on the players who have made the cut and those who have been left behind. Among the winners and losers, a few names stand out, each with their own story to tell. In this article, I'll delve into the key players who have emerged as winners and those who have been left in the lurch, offering my own interpretation and commentary on the situation.
Winners
Reece Walsh (QLD)
Reece Walsh has been a hot topic of conversation, and for good reason. After a shaky start to the season, he's found himself in the Queensland squad, and it's easy to see why. His ability to step up in big games and his potential to unlock the Maroons' attacking abilities make him a valuable asset. Personally, I think his selection is a smart move by Billy Slater, who sees potential in Walsh's ability to provide a spark off the bench. The fact that Slater is willing to experiment with Walsh in the halves is a testament to his versatility and the faith Slater has in him. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for Walsh to become a game-changer, especially if he's given the time to settle in and build confidence.
Kuli Fieneuaki (QLD)
Kuli Fieneuaki's promotion to the Queensland squad is well-deserved. His commitment to defence and his ability to make an impact on the field have been impressive. Slater's praise for Fieneuaki's improvement in defence is a testament to his hard work and dedication. The young back rower's performance this season has been a bright spot for the Dolphins, and his selection for the Maroons is a reflection of that. From my perspective, Fieneuaki's selection is a strategic move by Slater, who sees potential in his ability to provide a solid presence on the interchange bench.
Dylan Lucas (NSW)
Dylan Lucas has been a revelation for the Knights, and his selection for the NSW squad is a no-brainer. His line-running, speed, and athleticism make him a force to be reckoned with. The fact that he's signed a new deal to remain in Newcastle is a testament to his value to the club. Lucas' looming Origin debut caps off an impressive start to the year, and his selection for the Blues is a reflection of his talent and potential. What many people don't realize is that Lucas' selection is a strategic move by Laurie Daley, who sees him as a key player in the team's success.
Losers
Stephen Crichton (NSW)
Stephen Crichton's lingering shoulder injury has been a concern for the Blues, and it's no surprise that he's been ruled out of the squad. His performance in the series opener was underwhelming, and his injury concerns were too much of a risk for the coaching staff. However, it's worth noting that Crichton did come up with a big moment, proving he's up to the grade. In my opinion, his injury concerns were a significant factor in his omission from the squad, and it remains to be seen if he'll be able to recover in time for future games.
Ezra Mam (QLD)
Ezra Mam's omission from the Queensland squad is a reflection of his struggles this season. His defence and consistency have been a concern, and his performance during Brisbane's five-game losing streak hasn't been up to par. Mam's last-minute decision to rob Brisbane of a chance of a miraculous win is a testament to his inconsistency. While he has the potential to be a threat at Origin level, it remains to be seen if he'll be able to find that form consistently. Personally, I think Mam's omission is a strategic move by Slater, who sees the need for a more reliable option in the halves.
Jacob Saifiti (NSW)
Jacob Saifiti's omission from the NSW squad is a surprise, especially considering his impressive performance against the Storm. His leadership and ability to make an impact on the field make him a valuable asset to the Knights. However, with the return of Payne Haas and the promotion of Dylan Lucas, there was no space for Saifiti in the squad. It's an unlucky situation, and it remains to be seen if he'll be able to recover in time for future games. From my perspective, Saifiti's omission is a strategic move by Daley, who sees the need for a more versatile option on the edge.
Deeper Analysis
The 2026 State of Origin series has been a reflection of the players' form and consistency. The winners have stepped up to the plate, while the losers have been left behind due to injury concerns and inconsistent performances. The fact that Slater is willing to experiment with Walsh in the halves is a testament to his faith in the player's ability to step up in big games. It's also a reflection of the need for versatility and adaptability in the modern game of rugby league.
Conclusion
The 2026 State of Origin series has been a reflection of the players' form and consistency, and the winners and losers have emerged. Reece Walsh, Kuli Fieneuaki, and Dylan Lucas have stepped up to the plate, while Stephen Crichton, Ezra Mam, and Jacob Saifiti have been left behind due to injury concerns and inconsistent performances. As the series continues, it remains to be seen if the winners will be able to maintain their form and if the losers will be able to recover in time for future games. From my perspective, the series has been a reflection of the need for versatility and adaptability in the modern game of rugby league, and it's clear that the players who are able to step up to the plate will be the ones who emerge as champions.
