State of Origin 2025: Key Updates on Injury and Leadership Changes

In the lead-up to Game 2 of the State of Origin series, significant developments have emerged concerning player injuries and team leadership. Bulldogs winger Jacob Kiraz has been called into the New South Wales Blues camp following Brian To’o's hamstring injury, which he sustained during a training session. To’o, who has faced multiple hamstring injuries this season, is expected to travel with the team to Perth and participate in the upcoming match against Queensland on June 18, 2025. The Blues medical staff remain optimistic that To’o's absence from Thursday's training session is merely precautionary (Fox Sports, June 11, 2025).

Kiraz, 23, enjoyed a breakout season last year and was close to being selected for the Game 1 squad before suffering a calf injury. His inclusion marks a strategic move for the Blues, who aim to level the series after losing the first game (Fox League, June 11, 2025).

In a notable shift in team dynamics, Cameron Munster has been appointed as Queensland’s captain, succeeding Daly Cherry-Evans, who has been dropped from the lineup. Munster expressed his surprise at being named captain, recalling a conversation with Queensland coach Billy Slater, who confirmed his leadership role amidst a must-win situation for the Maroons (Fox Sports, June 11, 2025). Munster acknowledged the pressure of stepping into a leadership role, especially given the strong bond he shares with Cherry-Evans, stating, "It’s disappointing but someone had to take the role" (Fox Sports, June 11, 2025).

The Queensland team is also experiencing changes in its roster. The coach, Slater, has made several adjustments, including moving Pat Carrigan to the bench and promoting Trent Loeiro to the starting position (Code Sports, June 11, 2025). This strategy reflects the coach’s response to the team's performance and the need for fresh dynamics as they aim to reclaim the series from New South Wales.

In response to his exclusion from the squad, NSW coach Laurie Daley confirmed that Terrell May met with him to discuss his omission from the Game 2 lineup. Daley noted May's talent and passion for representing New South Wales, indicating that the forward could have opportunities in future matches (Fox Sports, June 11, 2025).

As the teams prepare for the pivotal match in Perth, all eyes will be on both the Blues and the Maroons as they navigate injuries, leadership changes, and the pressure of a high-stakes series. With the series currently favoring New South Wales 1-0, Queensland will be eager to establish a winning momentum in their home territory.

This evolving narrative not only highlights the physical demands placed on players but also the strategic decisions made by coaching staff that may ultimately influence the outcome of this historic rugby league rivalry.