James Roberts’ State of Origin snub by Blues a boost for Broncos

JAMES Roberts has been overlooked for a maiden State of Origin call-up despite his sizzling start to the season — but there’s a silver lining for the Broncos.

James Roberts was overlooked for a maiden State of Origin call-up. Picture: Annette Dew

ANTHONY Mundine cannot believe it, nor can Benji Marshall.

Why was James Roberts on the Wayne Plane to Auckland with the Broncos on Thursday instead of preparing to line up alongside the Hayne Plane in a Blues jersey?

Roberts was overlooked for a maiden State of Origin call-up despite his sizzling start to the season that has reaped eight tries in 10 matches.

Blues coach Laurie Daley stuck solid with Kangaroos right centre Josh Dugan despite him being on restricted training duties as he recovers from a fractured cheekbone.

Roberts’ Origin snubbing saw his uncle, Mundine, take to social media to slam Daley’s decision.

James Roberts was overlooked for a maiden State of Origin call-up. Picture: Annette Dew

Fill-in Broncos five-eighth Marshall feels the same way, but has seen the silver lining ahead of Saturday’s clash against the Warriors at Mt Smart Stadium.

“I cannot believe that,” Marshall said.

“I thought he was very stiff to not make that side. He’s been the form player of the comp out of all the centres.

“We’ve seen time and again he breaks the game open. He could have added a bit of spark there. He’ll get his opportunity.

“It’s pretty good for us. He’s definitely our strike player on the edges. We’ll be looking to get the ball to him a bit.”

Dugan himself feels a touch of fortune in retaining his Blues jersey.

He has been playing fullback for the Dragons this year, but his nine previous Origin appearances earned him the nod.

“(Roberts) is playing good footy,” Dugan admitted.

James Roberts has enjoyed a sizzling start to the season. Picture: Darren England.

“He’s chomping at the bit to get there. It’s probably lucky I’ve been here before.”

Wayne Bennett’s Broncos will be missing seven regulars — Maroons stars Darius Boyd, Matt Gillett, Sam Thaiday, Josh McGuire, Corey Oates and Anthony Milford, along with hooker Andrew McCullough (concussion).

The omissions threaten to end Brisbane’s six-game winning streak, but Marshall believes the Broncos have the cattle to get the job done against a woeful Warriors side.

“They are obviously in a bit of a tough patch at the moment,” Marshall said.

“On paper we still think we’ve got a fair enough team to win the game. That’s the way I feel.”