A Challenging Week for NSW Origin Coach Laurie Daley
The past few days have been a nightmare for NSW Origin coach Laurie Daley, as several key players in his 2026 plans have suffered serious injuries. The Blues’ contenders—Tom Trbojevic, Mitch Kenny, and Payne Haas—have all faced setbacks within 48 hours, leaving Daley with a difficult task ahead.
Daley, who is set to be in Melbourne on Monday to help launch this year’s interstate series, joked that he might need to dust off his boots if the number of injured players continues to grow.
Injuries That Could Change the Game
Trbojevic is facing up to eight weeks on the sidelines due to a “moderate” hamstring strain after hobbling from the ground during the first half of a game on Thursday night. His injury has come as a major blow, especially since he was close to being selected for the squad.
Panthers No.9 Mitch Kenny suffered a leg fracture against the Dolphins on Friday in Darwin. Scans scheduled for Monday are expected to confirm ligament damage to his ankle, which could keep him out for up to three months. Daley had already considered Kenny as a potential selection for 2026, citing his tough playing style, leadership, and ability to provide good service on the field.
On Sunday, Broncos officials confirmed that Payne Haas will be sidelined for up to six weeks after injuring his left knee in a hard-fought win over the Wests Tigers. Early indications suggest a grade two to grade three MCL injury, and he is set to undergo scans later that day.
Other Players in Question
Kotoni Staggs, another NSW contender, has been dealing with plantar fasciitis for the past few weeks and is currently being monitored on a week-to-week basis. This adds to the uncertainty surrounding the team’s depth.
Daley expressed his disappointment at the news regarding Trbojevic, noting that he had been showing signs of returning to his best form. He praised Trbojevic’s acceleration into and through the line, as well as his ability to take tough carries when needed.
When Haas came off the field, Daley found himself jotting down a list of players who might now be unavailable. Even if Haas makes a quick recovery, Daley and his selectors would need to decide whether it’s wise to pick him for the first match against Queensland without him having played for five weeks.
Additional Challenges
Hudson Young’s two-week suspension means he will have only one match before facing the Maroons due to Canberra’s bye. Liam Martin is out for up to six weeks with a knee injury, while Newcastle’s Bradman Best is dealing with a groin injury but is expected to return in the next fortnight.
Canterbury captain Stephen Crichton is also expected to return in the same timeframe after suffering a shoulder complaint. Meanwhile, Crichton’s teammate Max King has a broken jaw and is uncertain about his availability.
Positive Signs
Despite the challenges, there are some positive developments for Daley. Nathan Cleary and Latrell Mitchell both scored four tries against the Dragons on Saturday. Isaah Yeo, the lock and captain, and Cameron Murray, who can play in the middle or on the edge, offer Daley flexibility in his selection.
Controversial Player Availability
Daley remains cautious about Moses Leota’s availability, especially given the origin cutoff age. Leota arrived in western Sydney only four months after his 13th birthday, making him ineligible for selection. Daley was clear in his response: “He’s not available right now.”
