A Friend in need when it comes to Maroons
NOT only will Queensland coach Kevin Walters have to find a new captain for this year’s State of Origin series but he could be searching for a new hooker.
Walters admits being concerned with the form of incumbent rake Andrew McCullough over the early part of the year and hinted at calling on Jake Friend.
McCullough has been part of a Brisbane side that has won just one of its opening five games, putting him in danger of losing his Maroons jumper.
Asked on Big Sports Breakfast yesterday whether hooker is his currently biggest selection headache, Walters said: “I think so, for sure.
“It’s been a position that we haven’t really filled correctly since the retirement of Cameron Smith. It was only last Origin series where he left.
“Andrew McCullough did a really good job for us last year in games one, two and three, and at the moment this year he’s been struggling with the Broncos.”
Walters nominated Friend as a possible solution, however the Roosters co-captain has only played twice this year due to a shoulder issue.
He played all 80 minutes in their Round 1 loss to South Sydney, was absent in game two, and lasted just 33 minutes in Round 3 against Parramatta.
“Jake Friend is one that finished off really strongly last year with the Roosters, and then started this year well,” Walters said.