Queensland's State of Origin campaign has been thrown into uncertainty after Tom Dearden suffered a syndesmosis injury that could potentially rule him out for the entire series.
Dearden had firmly established himself as Billy Slater's first-choice halfback after a breakout 2025 campaign, with his rise culminating in a Wally Lewis Medal performance during last year's series victory.
Now, Slater faces arguably his biggest selection dilemma since taking over as Maroons coach.
Does he return to the proven experience of Daly Cherry-Evans and Ben Hunt? Or bring in debutants like Jamal Fogarty, Tanah Boyd, or Sam Walker?
Each option brings vastly different strengths, experience levels and risks, leaving Queensland with no obvious replacement for one of the most important positions on the field.
Here are the five leading contenders to wear Dearden's Maroons jersey.
1. Jamal Fogarty
Jamal Fogarty shapes as the third potential debutant option in contention for Queensland's vacant halfback role.
Fogarty is already an established organising halfback at club level and has built his game around control, kicking and game management, all traits highly valued in the Origin arena.
The 32-year-old was a crucial part of the Raiders' 2025 minor premiership campaign and has continued to produce strong performances this season despite difficult circumstances surrounding the club early in the year.
Fogarty's numbers in 2025 place him just behind Nathan Cleary for both kick metres gained and attacking kicks, while he also sits equal third in the NRL for try assists.
This kicking game could heavily appeal to Billy Slater.
Across his last three matches, Fogarty has averaged 538 kick metres, consistently controlling field position and relieving pressure for his side.
He has also contributed 77 points across seven games this season, highlighting his value both as a creator and goal-kicker.
Although Manly endured a miserable start to the season, which ultimately resulted in their coach being sacked, Fogarty has now got his bearings in the Northern Beaches, developing combinations within the team as the year has progressed.
Beyond the statistics, Fogarty would bring a calm and mature presence into the Queensland camp.
At 32 years old, he may not possess the explosive unpredictability of younger contenders such as Sam Walker, but his experience and composure could provide the Maroons with stability alongside Cameron Munster.
While selecting Fogarty would still represent an Origin debut gamble, his consistent club form as a halfback and elite kicking game may make him one of the more balanced options available to Slater.
