New coach looks to Origin great to restore Maroon pride
NEW Queensland coach Billy Slater has reached out to Origin legend Cameron Smith and believes the Maroons have the talent to bring down a NSW dynasty.
Slater has been appointed Queensland’s State of Origin coach until at least the end of the 2023 series.
The 31-game Origin great becomes its 13th head coach and replaces Paul Green after this year’s 2-1 series loss.
It will be his first elite head coaching job since he retired from playing in 2018, after a 319-game NRL career with the Melbourne Storm.
An experienced mentor, such as three-time Queensland coach Wayne Bennett, is expected to provide guidance for Slater.
Slater is close to former Storm teammate Smith, who made a record 42 appearances for Queensland.
Smith is expected to join Camp Maroon in some capacity.
“We’ve had some private discussions – I’m very close to Cam,” he said. “In terms of official approaches, I haven’t spoken to anyone. I thought if I’m going to lead this team it’s important for me to commit first.
“Over the next few months we’ll put together a team around this side.”
Slater, 38, jumps into the Maroons hot seat following one of the most tumultuous series in Queensland’s 41year Origin history.
The Maroons suffered their worst defeat (50-6 in Townsville) before being held scoreless at Suncorp Stadium (26-0) for the first time, a facesaving game three win (20-18) avoiding a clean sweep.
With Tom Trbojevic, Latrell Mitchell and Nathan Cleary set for long careers in the Blues jersey, NSW has the ingredients to dominate Origin.
But Slater is confident the Maroons have the talent to match the Blues if he can bring out the best in Queensland.