James Maloney should replace Boyd Cordner as captain of NSW for this year’s State of Origin, according to former Blues coach Phil Gould.

May 22, 2018

James Maloney should captain the NSW State of Origin team this series in favour of Boyd Cordner, according to former coach Phil Gould.

Gould said although he doesn’t expect NSW coach Brad Fittler to go so far, he would drop incumbent skipper Cordner from the team altogether and select Tariq Sims.

“I just don’t think he’s (Cordner) going good enough and I’ve always questioned his impact at that level as well,” Gould told the Nine Network’s 100% Footy program.

“For me Boyd Corner’s football has stagnated over the last two or three years. 

“He runs the one line, at the one time, every time. There’s nothing varied about his play; never passes the ball.

“He’s willing, he’s got a great constitution, he’s got a great work ethic, he’s very popular amongst the playing group, but … I think Tariq Sims is going by far the better.”

Gould said despite his preference to leave the Sydney Roosters forward out, he expects to see Cordner lining up in blue in June.

“I think he’ll be picked. I think that Brad Fittler will stick with him. I wouldn’t make him captain though. I think the captain’s got to be in the halves for NSW,” he said.

“Maloney’s the most experienced playmaker there, he should have control of the team.”

His assessment was backed by Queensland great and current Maroons selector Darren Lockyer, who said he wouldn’t be surprised if Cordner was dropped.

“He’s not going as well as he once was,” Lockyer said

“He can inspire his team with his toughness, but I don’t know if he’s threatening enough on the edge.”