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Blues Urged: Unleash Olakau'atu for Origin Decider
28 Jun
Summary
- Olakau'atu's dominant performance earned calls for Origin recall.
- Experts suggest benching Olakau'atu for maximum impact.
- Several players are vying for spots in the final Origin squad.
As Laurie Daley prepares to name the NSW Blues squad for the State of Origin decider, calls are mounting for the inclusion of Haumole Olakau'atu. The Manly second-rower delivered a powerful performance on Saturday night, scoring two tries and breaking nine tackles in a decisive victory. This display has led former players like Cooper Cronk and Kevin Walters to advocate for his recall.
Walters suggested Olakau'atu could be a potent weapon off the bench, capable of causing significant damage to a fatigued Queensland side, particularly targeting the Maroons captain. Cronk agreed, envisioning him as a powerful impact player rather than a starter in the back row. Olakau'atu's recent form has sharpened his game, making a strong case for selection in the crucial third match.
The Blues squad for Game 3 is expected to be revealed on Sunday evening. While some positions, like fullback with James Tedesco and Dylan Edwards in contention, and the halves with Nathan Cleary expected to be locked in, remain debated, Olakau'atu's performance has intensified the selection discussion. Other players like Dylan Lucas, Bradman Best, and Apisai Koroisau are also in contention.
