The Gold Coast Bulletin

BOYD BACKED TO TAKE QUEENSLAND’S TOP JOB

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MAROONS skipper Cameron Smith has anointed inform fullback Darius Boyd as the heir to his throne as Queensland captain.

As he prepares for a record 40th Origin game in the series opener against NSW on Wednesday night, Smith says Boyd has rocketed into the frame to succeed him as Maroons skipper.

Queensland have had a settled leadership plan for the past decade with Smith and his predecesso­r, Broncos great Darren Lockyer, having been standout candidates as Origin captains. But with Smith facing possible retirement at the end of next year, when he comes off-contract at the Melbourne Storm, Maroons coach Kevin Walters is weighing up options.

Smith has previously spruiked the potential of Daly Cherry-Evans, but with the Manly skipper on the Origin outer, he believes Boyd is a frontrunne­r.

“I have no doubt Darius can be the next Queensland captain,” Smith said.

“He is doing a great job at the Broncos.”

 ??  ?? Darius Boyd has been touted as the next captain of the Queensland State of Origin team. Picture: PETER WALLIS
Darius Boyd has been touted as the next captain of the Queensland State of Origin team. Picture: PETER WALLIS

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