​​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

Former NRL star Luke Keary has delivered a passionate message ahead of the State of Origin decider, arguing that New South Wales will not be saved by selection changes. Speaking after the Blues' heavy Game II defeat, Keary insisted the result at Suncorp Stadium will depend on attitude, belief, and commitment rather than the names listed on the team sheet. His comments come as pressure continues to build on coach Laurie Daley and speculation grows over potential changes for the series deciding clash.

The Blues were heavily criticised following their 44-24 loss to Queensland in Melbourne.

Attention has focused on team selections, coaching decisions, and whether significant changes are required for Game III.

Keary Dismisses Selection Debate

Keary made it clear he believes discussions about who should be selected are missing the point.

During an appearance on The Agenda Setters: Rugby League, he presented a graphic showing every position marked as unavailable rather than naming players.

According to Keary, New South Wales already possesses enough talent to win the series.

"It doesn't matter who they pick. It does not matter," Keary said.

"They've got the best players in the game. They've got the best halfback in the world. They've got everyone."

The former Blues representative argued that success in Origin comes down to mentality rather than personnel.

Focus On Belief And Commitment

Keary believes the key responsibility now rests with the coaching staff.

He said the challenge for Daley and his assistants is creating the right environment and ensuring players fully commit to the cause.

According to Keary, winning at Suncorp Stadium requires complete belief from the squad.

"It matters about when they get into camp, that the coach gets them together and makes them believe that they need to die for that jersey, die for the cause," he said.

When asked whether he would support retaining the same team, Keary remained consistent.

"I don't care who they pick. It doesn't matter," he said.

He stressed that performances on the field would ultimately determine the outcome rather than selection headlines.

Pressure Growing On Daley

The discussion inevitably turned toward Laurie Daley's future.

Daley has faced mounting criticism following the Game II defeat and remains under pressure heading into the deciding match.

His overall record in Origin deciders has become a major talking point.

Keary acknowledged concerns surrounding the Blues coach but suggested a victory in Brisbane could dramatically change perceptions.

"He's 0-4 in deciders. This is his chance to go to Queensland, and it'll all be forgotten if he can win it," Keary said.

Moses Defends Coach And Fitness

Meanwhile, Blues five eighth Mitchell Moses has defended both Daley and his own fitness following criticism after Game II.

Daley's decision to select Moses despite a recent hamstring injury attracted scrutiny following the defeat.

Questions were raised after Moses completed limited training sessions leading into the match.

However, the Parramatta captain insisted he was fully fit.

"Once we started to do media, it was question after question, which is completely understandable," Moses said.

"It's Origin, it's the most talked about and most watched game."

Moses maintained that concerns about his physical condition were exaggerated and rejected suggestions that fitness impacted his performance.

Blues Lose Key Star

New South Wales has already suffered a major setback ahead of the decider.

Latrell Mitchell has been ruled out due to a calf injury, forcing Daley into at least one change.

The loss removes one of the Blues' most influential attacking players and further increases pressure on selectors.

Moses said he felt disappointed for Mitchell but was more concerned about the criticism directed at Daley.

"I don't know where it's coming from and to have it come from your own New South Welshmen, it's crazy," Moses said.

"We should be getting behind Laurie as much as possible and supporting him."

Martin Pushing For Return

Penrith forward Liam Martin is among the players being discussed as a potential inclusion.

Martin missed the opening two matches of the series through injury but has gradually rebuilt his fitness with the Panthers.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said the forward remains firmly in contention.

"He's a big game player, but I'm not picking the team," Cleary said.

The experienced representative coach added that Martin's club form would determine whether he enters calculations for the decider.

Origin Window Proposal Gains Support

Cleary also supported discussion around introducing a dedicated Origin window in future seasons.

The proposal would allow the State of Origin series to be played across consecutive weeks while reducing disruption to the NRL competition.

Cleary suggested the concept deserved serious consideration as the game continues to evolve.