Harry Grant – Start or Bench for Origin?

If there was a betting market for Harry Grant being picked for Origin this year, he would be less than Winx-like odds.

Actually the market would be suspended he is that much of a lock to get picked.

If he is fit…

Many experts have Grant starting with Ben Hunt in the #14.

I like Ben Hunt. I think he plays that role well in Origin.

But Grant has showed in game 3 last year, and four of his five starts this year that coming off the bench is where he is more impactful.

No doubt Grant is fine playing the full 80, but after missing the first 4 rounds this year he is averaging only 56 minutes in his split role with the Cheese.

Now a hamstring injury will see him sit out the next 2 weeks, giving him just the Broncos game in round 12 before the Game 1 squad is announced.

Not the most ideal preparation.

There is another little tough nut who I think would be perfect to start.

For me Reed Mahoney has been one of the standout hookers this year.

He is a tough bastard that would not only take a bit of sting out of the NSW Blues with his defence, but be dangerous for them in attack as well.

Just like Friend in Game 3 last year, Mahoney could come off after 25 minutes, allow Grant to add that spark just before the half off the bench, and then come back in the second half with both attacking the tired NSW Blues forwards.

I hope QLD don’t though…I want NSW to win.

– Uncle Roasty