Analysis: Who replaces Cameron Munster in Queensland’s halves?
Queensland legend Justin Hodges has urged Maroons coach Billy Slater to unleash X-factor Ezra Mam in the halves for Game 1 of the series, but a reliable Cowboy is the frontrunner.
Former champion centre Justin Hodges has urged Billy Slater to be bold and unleash Ezra Mam as the Maroons State of Origin X-factor.
With Cameron Munster sidelined for 8-10 weeks with a groin injury, coach Slater must decide whether to go for Cowboy playmaker Tom Dearden or the electric Mam when he names his first team next Monday.
It’s a tight call and opinion is divided among ex-greats and fans as to who should get the nod for the series opener in Sydney on June 8.
Former Test centre Brent Tate leans towards Dearden, who played one Origin game two years ago, while Origin icon Wally Lewis feels it may depend on what style of player Slater is looking for.
Hodges, however, has no doubt Broncos conjurer Mam has the perfect skill-set for Origin with the right blend of flair and fibre.
“To be honest I know Tommy has been there and done it before but I am thinking Ezra,’’ said Hodges who played 24 Origin matches over 14 years.
“I just think he brings that X factor you need. He’s tough. He’s strong. He puts his body on the line.
“If you put him beside Daly Cherry-Evans it will be like playing beside Adam Reynolds at the Broncos because they do most of the control.
“He plays eyes up footy and the thing is you have Reece Walsh out the back and they have a good combination.
“Ezra is a confident player. He does not have to do anything different in Origin than he does at the Broncos. The thing about him is that he makes everyone around him look better because he is a threat with the ball. He will be outstanding at this level.
“One thing I really like about him is his kick chases. When the ball goes up he is always the first or second player down there. That is the sign of a player who wants to compete and wants to win.
“He proved himself, especially in the big games in the grand final last year when he scored three tries.
“He started the season well this year and has often played without Reynolds in the team and played well.’’
Lewis conceded Mam could be a nightmare opponent for the Blues big men but Dearden’s toughness should not be downplayed.
“They are both very good players,’’ Lewis said.
“Ezra’s attacking skills have been very productive for the Broncos at a time when they have been without Reynolds.
“Tom has been there and done that and is a tough little thing. They are different players. It depends on what he wants. Mam’s style can be very damaging.
“He is light on his feet and I can imagine the bigger forwards on the edge of the ruck would hate marking him.’’
Tate, who watches Dearden closely for the Cowboys as he lives in Townsville and formerly played for the club, has Dearden just in front.
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“I think Tommy because he has been there and done it and I have that much respect for that kid because I think he is such a wonderful competitor,’’ Tate said.
“I think he is a little in front but I really had a high opinion of Ezra as well. Tommy is more than competitor type. Ezra may have more flair. Both are suited to Origin.
“I would go for Tommy but if they go for Ezra I would be just as happy.’’
Originally published as Analysis: Who replaces Cameron Munster in Queensland’s halves?
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