QLD Maroons
1. Billy Slater
Slater has been one of the premier fullbacks for as long as I can remember. Injury may have unfortunately ended his career according to reports, but if fit, he would likely have been selected.
2. Valentine Holmes
Holmes costly mistake in the pre-season training camp is the only thing that has seen him miss selection in 2016. He is in irresistible form and is arguably the form winger of the competition. He’ll play Origin for the next decade.
3. Will Chambers
Another who if fit, would likely have been chosen. Chambers will be missed in the Origin set up as he was the most likely to replace the retiring Justin Hodges.
4. Cameron Munster
Another who was ruled out due to his pre-season indiscression, however Munster was probably likely to miss selection regardless. That being said, he has plenty of Origin jerseys in his future.
5. Kyle Feldt
If reports are to be believed, Feldt had an Origin jersey until his performance against the Broncos convinced selectors otherwise. Unlucky but will push Dane Gagai for Origin 2.
6. Anthony Milford
It’s scary to think that even if he were available for selection, Milford would have been overlooked regardless due to Michael Morgan’s form. He’ll be an Origin mainstay once Cronk and Thurston retire.
7. Ben Hunt
Another non-selection that highlights how deep the QLD halves talent pool goes. He, Morgan and Milford are the future for the Maroons, although neither Cronk nor Thurston look ready to hang up the boots anytime soon.
8. Jacob Lillyman
Lillyman was a surprise omission from the QLD squad, and can consider himself unlucky. The Warriors horror start to the season probably worked against him, although he has been, by far, one of the most consistent for the Auckland based side.
9. Jake Friend
Cam Smith if the first player picked in any rep side, but in any other era Jake Friend could have already been an Origin main stay. Will have to wait until the captain retires, however if called upon, could do a job.
10. Dylan Napa
Napa would have been selected if available, of that I have no doubt. One of the most damaging young forwards in the game, he unfortunately joins the other suspended Maroons and will have to wait until 2017.
11. Gavin Cooper
To be honest I am not sure how much more Gavin Cooper could have done to earn a Maroon jumper this season. His combination with Thurston is the best half/backrower combo in the game.
12. Ethan Lowe
Another who missed selection by the smallest of margins. Lowe is having a great start to the season and could be called upon if needed.
13. Jayson Bukuya
The returning Shark is having a wow of a season, and although he is stuck behind some ridiculous talent, would not let anyone down. I’m not 100% sure on his availability, having played for Fiji in the past, but much like Frizell, I believe he is available if needed.
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