Are Nathan Cleary and James Maloney’s Origin chances dead in the water?
As debate continues to rage surrounding the form of incumbent New South Wales halves James Maloney and Nathan Cleary, Phil Rothfield believes there’s no longer a conversation to be had.
Blues
Don't miss out on the headlines from Blues. Followed categories will be added to My News.
EARLY MAIL: All the latest team changes
TROUBLE: Brisbane on the ropes again
As debate continues to rage surrounding the form of incumbent New South Wales halves James Maloney and Nathan Cleary, Phil Rothfield believes there can be no more conjecture and their current form is simply not good enough.
Speaking on The Monday Bunker regarding Penrith’s finals chances after a tough start to the year, Rothfield slammed the series-winning halves, saying he believed there was no longer a debate to be had and Brad Fittler must turn to more in-form options.
“I’ve got serious doubts. You look at the halves, I don’t think there’s a conversation now to be had with Maloney and Cleary in terms of Origin,” Rothfield said.
“I think if it was close he’d go with the incumbent but I don’t think he can. I think Keary’s an absolute certainty, play him at halfback and on the left with either Cody Walker or the South Sydney halfback Adam Reynolds on the right.”
Maloney and Cleary have struggled for form all season and hit a new low in the 30-12 loss to Canberra on the weekend with Maloney copping two separate judiciary charges for foul play born of frustration.
Triple M’s Dan Ginnane conceded the duo were badly out of form but pointed out New South Wales had burned many a young half in the past by discarding them too quickly.
“I just know over the years New South Wales have burned young halves – Terry Campese, Peter Wallace, Brett Finch – they give them a go and they toss them away,” Ginnane said.
“Is Freddy going to do that with Nathan Cleary?”
Originally published as Are Nathan Cleary and James Maloney’s Origin chances dead in the water?
Storm coach puts end date on career
Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has opened up on his future and putting a potential finishing date on his legendary career.
Search delayed: Inside the 72 hours that left Blues coachless
Less than 72 hours after outlining his plan to defend the State of Origin shield in 2025, Michael Maguire signed a three-year deal with the Broncos. DAVID RICCIO reveals when the Blues will begin scouting for Maguire’s replacement.