holdzy
State of Origin Captain
Contributor
- May 5, 2016
- 9,376
- 9,216
We face a good problem in the forwards next year. We need to fit all of the following players in 5 starting spots and 4 bench spot.
Asiata
Bullimor
Carrigan
Flegler
Glenn
Haas
Lodge
Oates
Paix
Teo
Turpin
TPJ
Its a massive headache. Made easier if Lodge is moved on except I think he is very talented, has experience, and is a strong leader. His price tag and length are terrible but maybe 1 more good year out of him would help us cover more of his contract if we move him on.
For me the easiest choice is Oates on the bench. He gets to learn how to be a second rower, and he cover a backline injury.
The second easiest choice is Asiata to play at Lock moving Carrigan into the forwards. It’s obvious that Kev intends to use him as a third playmaker. However I probably wouldn’t start him. Instead I would start TPJ at 13 and bring Asiata on fresh after TPJ rips in for the first 20 mins. Asiata also covers and injury in the halves.
13. TPJ
14. Asiata
15. Oates
For me Haas starts and plays 60 minutes with a mid game rest. I think of the remaining props I’d start Lodge. Big aggressive and has a quick play the ball. Carrigan and Flegler are the remaining benches.
8. Haas
10. Lodge
13. TPJ
14. Asiata
15. Oates
16. Carrigan
17. Flegler
With no bench spots remaining only 1 spot is left for a hooker. That means we will need 80 minutes out of our hooker. It hurts to say but I think this means Macca gets the nod. Unless Turpin proves he can be effective for 80. Good coaching can allow for him to have breaks while on the field. For example Croft/Dearden can play some hooker coming out of our own half on kick returns or the backs can utilise dummy half runs.
The last 2 positions are our second row. Glenn is a walk in starter thanks to his experience and consistency. Riki starts over Oates imo, until Oates earns the start or Riki deserves to lose it.
The hardest part is where TPJ plays during his 2nd stint. i think ideally neither Glenn, Riki or Oates play full 80. Both starting 2nd row have a break.
As the roster stands, my forwards would be:
8. Haas
9. Macca
10. Lodge
11. Glenn
12. Riki
13. TPJ
14. Asiata
15. Oates
16. Carrigan
17. Flegler
Unless the script gets flipped, Asiata came here to be a starting 13.