Wayne Bennett picks who NSW should pick as halfback for Origin game two to replace Nathan Cleary
Queensland Origin legend Wayne Bennett knows who NSW should pick as halfback for the must-win second game – but doubts the Blues will make the right decision
- NRL super coach believes Adam Reynolds should be named for NSW
- The Blues must win the second game on June 21st to keep the Origin series alive
- Other halfback options are Nicho Hynes and Mitchell Moses
Rugby league super coach Wayne Bennett has outlined who he thinks NSW should pick as halfback ahead of Origin Two on June 21 – but expressed doubts the pressured Blues selectors will make the right decision.
Speaking at the North Sydney Oval on Thursday, Bennett, 73, told a scrum of reporters that Brad Fittler would have to pick Cody Walker and Adam Reynolds at halftime before a win at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium had to come.
He spoke at the Bears’ home stadium and prepared his Dolphins for Friday’s away game against the Sea Eagles at nearby 4Pines Park in Brookvale.
“NSW is in a very difficult position right now,” said Bennett. “You have to make the right decisions.” It’s as simple as that.
“They go to Brisbane and everyone knows how intimidating Queensland is in Brisbane.”
Rugby league super coach Wayne Bennett has a firm opinion on who NSW should pick as halfback ahead of Origin Two on June 21
Bennett believes the Blues selection would be insane if they didn’t pick Adam Reynolds (pictured) and Cody Walker in the half for the must-win clash
If Queensland wins game two in Brisbane, Brad Fittler will likely have his last game in charge for NSW
“I think they have to make some tough team decisions that I don’t think they were prepared for in the past.” They thought they could get away with some things but they won’t get away with it in Brisbane unless they have the right one make team selection.
“I would definitely take him.” [Reynolds]. In my opinion he is the best match manager in rugby league at the moment.
“He brings his shooting game and everything you need – he’s calm and someone who doesn’t get intimidated.”
Bennett then added that Walker is a must too because when the former Rabbitohs teammates are paired in the halves, “they have that combination and they’re going to worry everyone to death.”
Bennett also knows firsthand how much a pick bet can pay out in the Origin arena.
He famously picked Allan Langer for the Maroons in the 2001 series – and the 35-year-old, then playing for Warrington in the English Super League, put in an outstanding performance to secure the series.