Wayne Bennett says the lack of Gold Coast prop Tino Fa’asuamaleaui to a season-ending knee harm is a blow for Queensland however he is backed Dolphins firebrand Thomas Flegler to carry and assist fill the void.
Fa’asuamaleaui and Dolphins lock Tom Gilbert, each with anterior cruciate ligament accidents, will not play for the Maroons this yr in State of Origin.
The supply of powerful South Sydney center ahead Jai Arrow (shoulder) is but to be decided.
North Queensland second-rower Heilum Luki has not performed for Queensland but however was named within the pre-season squad. Luki is out of motion with a syndesmosis harm till spherical 9.
Flegler, who has performed simply three video games for the Maroons, received his first beginning Origin berth in sport two of final yr’s collection earlier than an injured foot stored him out of sport three.
The 24-year-old is able to take the subsequent step for his state and Bennett has backed him.
“I’m certain Tom goes to should,’ Bennett stated.
“It isn’t simply Tino. There are three or 4 Queensland gamers that will not be obtainable so he should rise up, however he’ll.”
Bennett was Maroons coach in 2020 when he introduced Fa’asuamaleaui in for his first Origin collection. He has since performed 12 video games for Queensland in a row, profitable three collection and changing into the most effective beginning props within the sport.
His absence might be felt.
“We tried to recruit Tino right here (on the Dolphins). He is among the first gamers we went after,” Bennett stated.
“I’ve at all times had a excessive opinion of him. I attempted to get him to the Broncos when he was 17. I’ve adopted his profession extensively and I’ve loved working with him. He’s a giant loss (for Queensland) however now we have all taken our losses. We simply should get on with it.”
Maroons selector Darren Lockyer can envisage Flegler stepping up.
“Tom had an incredible yr final yr underneath Kevvie Walters. He matured lots and he’ll mature much more underneath Wayne,” Lockyer stated.
“Tom has been there and has performed for Queensland. I’m certain if he will get the jersey he will not let his state down.
“It isn’t best having a few accidents. One door closes for a few key gamers for us however one other door opens for some others.
“I do know (coach) Billy Slater has been on the market having some conversations with these guys already. Whoever will get the jersey will deserve it and they’ll step up.”
Bennett confirmed how extremely he rated Flegler by going laborious for the previous Brisbane front-rower and signing him on a profitable four-year deal.
Flegler has began the season strongly and might be an important cog within the round-four conflict with Gold Coast on Saturday night time.
“I had him on the Broncos when he was lots youthful. I’ve at all times had a variety of time for him and like what he brings,” Bennett stated.
“He has fitted in nicely right here and I feel he’s having fun with himself.”
