Phil Gould has cast doubt over the chances of Dylan Edwards making his State of Origin debut, claiming it would be “grossly unfair” for NSW to select him on the wing.
While the fullback debate has been a hot topic across the opening two months of the NRL season, the form of incumbent No.1 and captain James Tedesco has seen the Roosters star remain in the box seat for the series opener on June 5.
Edwards, as well as Tom Trbojevic, have also been touted as potential fullback options, but it appears more likely the latter will line up in the centres.
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The question marks have now been raised over whether all three men could fit into Michael Maguire‘s team, with suggestions Edwards could slot onto the wing as he did for Australia last year in the Pacific Championships.
However, on the latest episode of Wide World Of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus, the former Penrith boss admitted his concern over playing Edwards out of position.
“He could do the job … but I think that would be grossly unfair on Dylan Edwards for his first venture into Origin,” Gould said.
“If they decide he needs to be in the Origin side, then he needs to be at fullback.
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“He could certainly play on the wing, he’d be a great No.14 – he can play anywhere. I’m not saying he couldn’t do it, but I’m saying it would be unfair to do it.
“If he’s going to be judged, be judged as a fullback. He’s absolutely perfect for Origin, but if they are going to pick him, pick him at fullback so you can see the best of him.”
Edwards leads the NRL for total run metres this season and sits in the top-five for tackle breaks, with his workrate placing him among the best fullbacks in the comp.
The 28-year-old, who has been overlooked for Origin duties in the past despite a litany of his Panthers teammates starring for the Blues, could go down as one of the most unlucky players to miss out on selection if Maguire sticks solid with Tedesco.
Gould has remained adamant that the former Rabbitohs and Tigers head coach will throw in a few curveballs prior to the first clash against the Maroons.
“I think people might be shocked by the selection of this Origin side,” he said.
“It’s a fresh set of eyes over this, they’ve lost a couple of years in a row and I don’t think Michael Maguire has any loyalty to any particular combination.
“I know he has spoken to and interviewed a lot of people – he is doing the rounds.
“This first team could quite shock everybody.”
