Billy Slater Snubs Origin Legend, Abandons Queensland Loyalty Policy Ahead of Game Two

Billy Slater Stuns NRL with Cherry-Evans Dropping for Origin II
By Australian Associated Press | Updated: 12:33 BST, 8 June 2025

Billy Slater has made a bold move by omitting Queensland legend Daly Cherry-Evans from his squad.

Queensland coach Billy Slater has shaken up the rugby league world by dropping veteran captain Daly Cherry-Evans for State of Origin II in Perth. Cherry-Evans becomes the first Maroons skipper axed mid-series this century, with North Queensland’s Tom Dearden set to replace him at halfback.

Key Changes and Squad Shake-Up

Slater’s 20-man squad, officially announced Monday, includes multiple surprises:

Kurt Capewell replaces second-rower Beau Fermor after Queensland’s 18-6 loss in Game I.
Kurt Mann takes Dearden’s bench spot after serving as 18th man in the opener.
Broncos’ Ezra Mam earns a shock call-up despite recent injury concerns, though he’s unlikely to feature in the final 17.

Tom Dearden steps into the crucial halfback role for the must-win clash.

Historic Decision Sparks Debate

Cherry-Evans’ omission marks a dramatic shift from Queensland’s traditional loyalty policy. The 36-year-old, who led the Maroons to three series wins since 2019, faced criticism for Queensland’s lacklustre attack in Game I. Only legends Wally Lewis, Darren Lockyer, and Cameron Smith have captained more Origins for the state.

Slater’s gamble mirrors NSW’s controversial handling of James Tedesco in 2024 but breaks new ground for Queensland, who haven’t axed a mid-series captain since Trevor Gillmeister in the 1990s.

Players React

Lock Pat Carrigan backed Dearden to shine: “Tommy’s competitive nature hasn’t changed since his debut. He’ll rise to the occasion.” However, he praised Cherry-Evans’ legacy: “Chez’s footy speaks for itself. We all respect what he’s done.”

Dearden brings momentum from strong NRL form with the Cowboys.

Injury Watch and Squad Depth

Prop Tino Fa’asuamaleaui is expected to play despite a sternum injury sustained in the Titans’ loss to Brisbane.
Raiders forward Corey Horsburgh and Storm youngster Jack Howarth join the extended squad as reserves.

Expected Queensland Squad for Origin II

Kalyn Ponga
Xavier Coates
Robert Toia
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
Valentine Holmes
Cameron Munster
Tom Dearden
Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
Harry Grant
Moeaki Fotuaika
Reuben Cotter
Jeremiah Nanai
Pat Carrigan
Interchange: 14. Kurt Mann, 15. Lindsay Collins, 16. Kurt Capewell, 17. Trent Loiero
Reserves: Ezra Mam, Jack Howarth, Corey Horsburgh

High-Stakes Scenario

With the series on the line in Perth, Slater’s gamble on youth over experience could redefine Queensland’s Origin identity. Dearden, who partnered Cherry-Evans in the 2022 decider, now faces immense pressure to revive the Maroons’ attack.

Featured images courtesy of Daily Mail Australia. Squad details sourced from AAP.

Word count: ~630 words
Images suggested: Billy Slater, Cherry-Evans, Tom Dearden (action shot), team huddle/Perth Stadium (conceptual)