NRL: Billy Slater chats his Origin II squad with media on Monday morning.
He has been replaced by Kurt Capewell in a big win for the versatile Warrior, who missed out on Game I through injury.
Speaking of injuries, Game I debutant J’maine Hopgood has been robbed of a second appearance, while Reece Walsh is straight back into the No.1 jersey despite not playing any football since the series opener.The only place to watch every game of every round LIVE with no ad-breaks during play is Fox League, available on Kayo. New to Kayo?Queensland will have a different type of utility for Game II and that is in the form of versatile Warriors forward Kurt Capewell.
“No, not at all. Reece is Queensland’s fullback right now, the ‘Hammer’ is Queensland’s centre right now. I saw a fair bit of form in his preparation and I’m looking forward to helping him go after that preparation.”After assuming the role of 18th man in Game I — and getting on the field — Kaufusi has now been included in the 17. The veteran forward was activated after Reece Walsh failed his HIA following a high tackle, which Joseph Sua’ali’i was sent off for.
Despite this, Hopgood backed up in Parramatta’s Round 14 loss to the Bulldogs, but played just 33 minutes, with interim coach Trent Barrett later admitting he should’ve rested the 25-year-old for the clash. Now, through no fault of his own, Hopgood misses the chance to increase his Origin appearance tally to two. Rugby league, and sport in general, is cruel in the sense that injuries can rob players of chances to appear on the biggest stage.
Slater confirmed Hopgood would’ve been in his Game II side had it not been for injury, and while he will undoubtedly be back in Maroon sooner rather than later, you just can’t help feeling bad for him.
Series Win Kurt Capewell Parramatta Eels Darcie Mcdonald Queensland Maroons Linebreak Assists Oceania Straight Back Fullback Role Kyle Robbins Series Opener Head Knock Rugby League Felise Kaufusi Maroon Fox League Australia And New Zealand J’Maine Billy Slater Calf Injury Dane Gagai Interim Coach Trent Barrett ORIGIN NEWS Backline Versatility Queensland Team Reece Walsh Australia Concussion Stand-Down Period Captaincy Questions Queensland
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