EXCLUSIVE: Uncertainty Surrounds Maroons No.7 Position as Selector Pressures DCE for Swift Decision

Billy Slater is gearing up to find a new halfback for the Queensland team as he plans for a future without their key leader, Daly Cherry-Evans.

Fortunately for Slater, the identification of a potential successor may be expedited with insights from selector Darren Lockyer and Maroons legend Wally Lewis.

As Cherry-Evans enters the final season of his tenure with Manly, his future in the NRL beyond 2025 remains unconfirmed.

At 36 years old, he has attracted interest from various clubs after announcing his departure from Manly, leaving questions about the possibility of retirement still lingering.

While the focus shifts to Manly’s next halfback, Lockyer and Lewis are concentrating on the significant impact Cherry-Evans’ exit will have on the Origin lineup.

Potential candidates mentioned by the duo include Jamal Fogarty and Ben Hunt, who are both considered viable options for the Maroons’ No.7 jersey.

However, one player truly caught Lewis’s attention.

“I would say I’m the president of the Tom Dearden fan club,” Lewis declared on Wide World of Sports’ QLDER.

“I know he is a remarkably talented player. He made a strong impression when he initially emerged in first grade as a halfback and has excelled in the five-eighth position.”

“He possesses immense talent… I believe he should definitely be among the frontrunners for the position.”

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Lockyer, a selector for the Maroons, remained somewhat secretive about his preferences for the No.7 jersey but acknowledged a potential partnership between Cameron Munster and Dearden could be effective.

“I think they would complement one another well,” Lockyer commented. “One plays creatively while the other has a structured approach.”

“Moreover, if you’re considering Ben Hunt at No.7, you need to address who would play hooker. This could likely bring Reed Mahoney into the mix.”

“If you’re shifting Hunt, you need to address who will cover that position. He’s exceptional at what he does.”

“There are various combinations that could work… but the priority is to ensure that those being considered are fit and well to provide options.”

Lewis urged Slater to start searching for solutions to the impending halfback conundrum promptly to ensure a smooth transition for the team’s future.

“The sooner the better in such situations,” he said. “We’re trying to gauge when this decision needs to be made, and it’s not an easy task. The sooner we can resolve this, the better for everyone.”

Lockyer expressed concern that conversations about the future of the Maroons may be premature, but acknowledged that the makeup of the spine will shape other selections.

“The earlier we can resolve this, the better, as who is chosen for the spine greatly influences game strategy,” he noted.

“Considering we’re discussing the current captain of Queensland, leadership dynamics are also at play.”

“I’m sure – though I haven’t spoken to Billy – that he is in discussions with Daly, which should continue. If Daly opts not to make himself available, then it’s essential for Billy to know soon to plan accordingly for that position.”

“However, planning at this stage is somewhat hasty,” Lockyer continued. “You can’t predict injuries… look at last year’s squad that narrowly missed out.”

“Until you’re a few weeks away from the first game and have clarity on player availability and form, decisions are being made too far in advance.”