Forgotten man opens up on fading Origin dream

Jarome Luai has become the forgotten man in the NSW five-eighth selection debate – but the Panthers star hasn’t given up hope of donning the blue jersey next month.

While the likes of Nicho Hynes and Mitchell Moses have been favoured for the No.6 jumper by many within the game, Luai has experience at State of Origin level and played a vital role in the 2021 series victory.

The 27-year-old is also a three-time premiership winner with Penrith and has a built-in combination with halfback Nathan Cleary, which has worked in his favour in the past.

However, his performances in last year’s series, as well as his infamous scuffle with Reece Walsh, has seemingly put Luai at the back of the line to fill spot.

Speaking on SEN radio, the fleet-footed playmaker admitted it was still a “goal” to represent the Blues, but conceded the race to play five-eighth was wide open.

“You’re always conscious about it when it’s coming up, all the talk around leading into it, who’s going to play in certain positions and things like that,” Luai said.

“I love the spirit of Origin, I love the build up towards it and I love the jersey itself.

“It’s always a goal for me at the start of every year to be amongst that 17 that runs out there and takes on Queensland.