Couple of questions for the genuine supporters of SoO i.e. NS Welshmen and Queenslanders. Are you happy to see the likes of Tamou and Kasiano considered for Origin or do you think it dilutes the product into another All Stars game? 80,000 at SoO II suggests it's the former. Do you think there'll come a time when yet another player drafted in breaks the camel's back and disillusionment with SoO will kick in or are people happy to see anybody in a blue or maroon shirt just as long as the standard of the spectacle is upheld?
I take it on a case by case basis. Some of the most loyal Australians we have are people that were born elsewhere. I certainly don't believe that NSW, Qld or Australian eligiblility should be on a place of Birth solely basis.
I feel that Tamou pushed the line to the edge and Kasiano has broken the line and this will lead to something happening. Whether it will be an improvement remains to be seen.
I think to play for Australia you should be an Australian citizen, or at least hold permanent residency status (not sure of the legalities). I think 3 years for residency is a joke, but am unsure if we can over rule that.
I feel to play for NSW or Qld you should meet that criteria, plus have spent the majority of your childhood (0-17) in that state for your schooling and junior sport. For migrants, I'd like to see them having spent at least 5 or 6 years in a State prior to being available for selection.
I find it galling that Greg Inglis has Bowraville listed under his name in the introductions before the State games.
