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Shock Origin II Selection: Maroons Drop Skipper Daly Cherry-Evans

The Queensland Maroons have ignited a firestorm of debate with their squad selection for State of Origin II in Perth. In a stunning move, coach Billy Slater has dropped veteran captain Daly Cherry-Evans, sending shockwaves through the rugby league world and leaving fans and pundits alike scrambling to understand the decision. This pivotal change comes as Queensland looks to solidify their series lead after a hard-fought victory in Game I.

Recent Updates: DCE Omitted From Maroons Squad

The official announcement from NRL.com and subsequent reporting by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) confirm the bombshell: Daly Cherry-Evans will not feature in the Maroons lineup for Origin II. The decision, reportedly made by coach Billy Slater, marks a significant shift in Queensland's leadership and halves pairing. This news broke on June 9, 2025, sending the rugby league community into a frenzy of speculation.

Why Drop the Skipper? The Context Behind Slater's Bold Call

Daly Cherry-Evans (DCE), a stalwart of the Queensland Maroons and Manly Sea Eagles, has been a fixture in the Origin arena for years. His experience and leadership have been crucial for Queensland, particularly in tight contests. However, questions have lingered about his form and ability to consistently deliver match-winning performances at the Origin level.

The decision to drop DCE raises several key questions:

• Form and Performance: While Cherry-Evans remains a quality player, his recent performances have been scrutinized. Has he been consistent enough to warrant his place in the team, especially with younger, in-form players knocking on the door?
• Strategic Shift: Is Slater looking to inject fresh energy and a different dynamic into the halves? Dropping a senior player like DCE suggests a desire for change.
• Succession Planning: Is this the beginning of a transition phase for the Maroons, paving the way for the next generation of Queensland playmakers?

According to The Australian, the question of why Billy Slater stuck with DCE "in the first place" is now being asked, suggesting that the halfback's selection has been a point of contention and debate even prior to this shock omission. This indicates that Slater may have been weighing up this decision for some time.

The Impact of Cherry-Evans's Omission: Immediate Effects

The immediate impact of this decision is multi-faceted:

• Leadership Vacuum: Cherry-Evans has been the Maroons captain and a key on-field leader. His absence will require other players to step up and fill that void.
• Halves Combination: A new halves pairing will need to be established quickly. This will require strong communication and cohesion, particularly under the immense pressure of an Origin match.
• Fan Reaction: The decision has undoubtedly sparked a strong reaction from fans, with opinions divided on whether it was the right call. Expect intense scrutiny of the new halves pairing and their performance in Game II.
• Team Morale: Dropping a senior player and captain can impact team morale. Slater will need to manage this situation carefully to ensure the team remains united and focused.

Looking Ahead: The Future for the Maroons and DCE

The decision to drop Daly Cherry-Evans raises questions about the future for both the Maroons and the veteran halfback himself.

For the Maroons:

• Opportunity for New Talent: This opens the door for younger players to stake their claim in the halves. A strong performance in Game II could solidify their place in the team for years to come.
• Evolution of the Team: Slater's decision signals a willingness to evolve the team and adapt to changing circumstances. This could lead to further changes in the lineup as he seeks to build a team capable of sustained success.
• Pressure to Perform: The pressure is now on the new halves pairing to deliver. A loss in Game II will intensify the scrutiny on Slater's decision and raise questions about his long-term plan.

For Daly Cherry-Evans:

• Future in Doubt: This decision raises questions about DCE's future in the Origin arena. Will he be able to regain his place in the team?
• Opportunity to Respond: Cherry-Evans will undoubtedly be motivated to prove Slater wrong. A strong performance for Manly could force his way back into contention.
• Legacy on the Line: How DCE responds to this setback will define his legacy. Will he accept the decision gracefully and support the team, or will he fade into obscurity?

State of Origin: More Than Just a Game

State of Origin is more than just a rugby league match; it's a cultural phenomenon. The rivalry between Queensland and New South Wales is deeply ingrained in Australian society, and the games are watched by millions across the country. The passion, intensity, and tribalism surrounding Origin make it one of the most captivating sporting events in the world.

The Maroons' decision to drop their captain only adds another layer of intrigue to this already compelling narrative. Whether it proves to be a masterstroke or a costly gamble remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: State of Origin II in Perth will be a game to remember.

The Broader Implications: Leadership, Loyalty, and Tough Decisions

Billy Slater's decision to drop Daly Cherry-Evans touches on broader themes of leadership, loyalty, and the difficult choices that coaches must make.

• Leadership: The role of a captain is crucial in rugby league. They are responsible for leading the team on and off the field, setting an example, and making critical decisions under pressure. Dropping a captain is a significant move that can disrupt the team dynamic.
• Loyalty: Loyalty is highly valued in rugby league, but coaches must also be ruthless in their pursuit of success. Balancing loyalty to long-serving players with the need to make tough decisions for the good of the team is a constant challenge.
• Tough Decisions: Coaches are often faced with difficult choices that will be unpopular with some players and fans. They must be able to justify their decisions and stand by them, even in the face of criticism.

Slater's decision to drop DCE will be debated for years to come, but it highlights the complexities of coaching at the highest level and the difficult choices that must be made to achieve success.

Perth Braces for Origin Fever

State of Origin II will be held in Perth, Western Australia, bringing the intense rivalry to a new audience. The game is expected to be a sell-out, with fans eager to witness the spectacle firsthand. The atmosphere in Perth will be electric as Queensland and New South Wales battle it out for supremacy.

Beyond the Headlines: The Unsung Heroes of Origin

While the spotlight often shines on the star players, State of Origin is also about the unsung heroes: the players who do the hard work in the trenches, the defenders who make crucial tackles, and the support staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. These are the players and people who often go unnoticed but are essential to the success of their teams.

The Future of State of Origin: Evolution and Innovation

State of Origin continues to evolve and innovate, with new rules and strategies being implemented to improve the game. The introduction of the six-again rule has sped up the game and created more opportunities for attack. Coaches are constantly looking for new ways to gain an edge, and the game is sure to continue to evolve in the years to come. The use of data analytics is also becoming increasingly prevalent, with teams using data to inform their decision-making and gain a competitive advantage.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Maroons

The decision to drop Daly Cherry-Evans marks a new chapter for the Queensland Maroons. It's a bold move that signals a willingness to change and evolve. Whether it proves to be a success or a failure remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added another layer of intrigue to the State of Origin series. The rugby league world will be watching closely to see how the Maroons respond in Game II. The pressure is on Billy Slater and his new-look team to deliver a performance that will silence the doubters and solidify their place at the top of the Origin mountain.