EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Confounded by Api Koroisau’s Surprising Omission from Blues Selection

Phil Gould has voiced his concerns regarding the NSW Blues selectors’ decision to overlook Api Koroisau, as the discussion over the hooker position escalates.

Reece Robson has donned the No.9 jersey for the past two State of Origin series but is now facing increasing competition from Blayke Brailey, who aims to secure the role for this year’s contest.

After a standout 2025 season with the Sharks, Brailey seems to have gained an edge, while Robson’s recent move to the Sydney Roosters keeps him firmly in the conversation.

However, Koroisau, who has only made four appearances for the Blues, has seen his stock drop since joining the Wests Tigers.

With his club performing exceptionally this season and Koroisau maintaining impressive form, Gould expressed his bewilderment as to why Koroisau’s name is not being mentioned alongside his competitors.

“I find it difficult to comprehend,” he stated on the Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus.

“I can’t provide an answer; it beats me. He would be my first choice, but I don’t make those selections.

“I have no idea why he’s lost favour, honestly. Especially with his established rapport with the other Penrith players likely to be in the squad.

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“I don’t quite understand it, but that’s ultimately up to the coaches and selectors. I really hope he does get picked, as I believe he is the top choice for NSW – but that’s a decision for them to make.

“At the end of the day, I’m at a loss as to why he’s been sidelined. Perhaps following a loss, they felt the need to make significant changes.

“However, to me, he remains one of the most stabilising players and has a significant impact. He contributes to the scoreboard, involves his teammates, influences the playmakers, and possesses invaluable big-game experience.

“I’m not sure what else they’re considering; I’ve got to be honest.”

Gould further commented that he believes the variance in previous series has been attributed to the dummy-half role, where Harry Grant has excelled for the Maroons as an attacking asset.

“It’s a crucial position for Queensland, one that we might be compromising by not selecting Api Koroisau,” he remarked.

“What they can offer from that position that we lack could sometimes determine the outcome of the matches.”

Koroisau has played a vital role in pushing the Tigers into the NRL’s top-four and remains one of the premier hookers in the game, even as he approaches 34 later this year.

In a recent chat on Nine’s 100% Footy on Monday, the talented Fijian international expressed his desire to have another crack at Origin level.

“Every player eligible would love the chance to play,” Koroisau reflected.

“It’s one of those situations; if they ever need me again, I’m ready to answer the call … my selection would hinge on my club performance.”

“I’ll let my on-field performance speak for itself and see what unfolds.”

Koroisau and the high-flying Tigers are set to face a challenging match in round seven against Brisbane, who will be missing Reece Walsh, Ben Hunt, and Pat Carrigan.