Cronulla Sharks coach Shane Flanagan says Queensland’s decision to omit Valentine Holmes for State of Origin one is proof the Maroons do not pick their team on form.
Holmes, the incumbent Test winger for Australia and premiership-winner with Cronulla last season, was left out of Kevin Walters’ squad for the opening match of the series in Brisbane next Wednesday night.
The 21-year-old’s omission has been largely overshadowed by Queensland’s decision to also leave out Origin legend Billy Slater, a veteran of 27 Origin appearances. Slater missed last year’s series through injury, with Queensland retaining Darius Boyd at fullback.
Queensland have also stuck solid with Brisbane’s Corey Oates and Newcastle’s Dane Gagai as their wingers given the Maroons’ series win last year.
Gagai in particular was a star for Queensland, scoring the only try in their 6-4 win in game one and a hat-trick in the Maroons’ series-clinching victory in game two.
But Flanagan believes Queensland’s decision to play the loyalty card was the wrong one.
“It proves a point to me they’re not picking the team on form,” he said.
“They’re going with the loyalty because on form he should be there.
“I know Val wants to play Origin. He’s played a couple of Tests now and a World Cup but can’t crack Origin.
“The time will come for Val. They’ve decided that time isn’t now. I’m disappointed for him [but it’s a] bonus for us.”
Walters told QRL media Holmes was unlucky to miss out.
"We are blessed in a way to have a lot of talent but unfortunately there wasn't enough room in game one for Valentine," he said.
"He played for Australia a few weeks ago. But he is someone who will no doubt wear the maroon jersey at some stage, if not this year, then in the coming years.
"He's been in great touch with the Sharks, won a premiership last year. [He’s] no stranger to big games.
"But, and I explained it to Valentine, the two guys we've selected on the wing last year were outstanding.”
Holmes and Melbourne utility Cameron Munster were not considered for State of Origin selection last year after breaking a curfew during an Emerging Maroons camp.
Holmes was fined for causing a public nuisance and obstructing police at a taxi rank while attempting to return to the team hotel in the Brisbane suburb of Mt Gravatt.
