Amazing, already we have a "no idea" Blues fan into Lockyer already...he truly is heading towards the Wally Lewis level. Does not matter how good they both were/are, they were still hated by New South Welshman. Keep it coming you predicatable sheep.
As for the QLD Maroons....
Well, well, well, Rhys Wesser can not do anymore to hold onto his jersey from 2004 and his head should be held high this morning despite the hollow feeling I am sure he has right about now. IMO, Wesser HAD TO BE AT FULLBACK, he has been in career best form and Slaters poor defence on the wing last season has seen Wesser lose his jumper. QLD selectors just told Rhys, "your not a better fullback than Slater". I have a hard time accepting that but we will move on.
Billy Slater was my winger but the shift back to fullback is as I said, for the simply fact he was poor in 2004 on the wing when asked the question in the front line. If we were to have Gaz or Cooper heading at him with either Rooney or King outside him, we could of been in for a world of hurt. I see their reasoning and it will perhaps be a master stroke.
Ty Williams in 2004 was near enough Origin material, he is a classy winger and will not let QLD down. I have not read the entire thread, though I would hope QLD fans are 100% behind the little fella' as he is a class act on the wing.
The halfback battle was always going to be close, I preferred Scott Prince the incumbent and better suited option to partner Lockyer, though I was of the opinion we don't lose much with either man. This could be the start of a very exciting chapter in the history of the QLD number 7 jersey...we could see the birth of great halves pairing at the same time.
All other selections were "stock standard" IMO. No real surprises in the forwards or the bench.
The NQ Cowboys have been rewarded for their great form over the last 18 months and their club should be appluaded...
The year 2005 is the year we reclaim the Origin Shield, get behind the team and have some faith in the QLD Selectors for game 1 is my tip as hard as it may be not to accept no Rhys Wesser.