New South Wales assistant Greg Alexander has explained the Blues’ decision to select Jack Wighton at starting centre for Origin I over Stephen Crichton.
While Wighton is an established Origin player with 10 appearances to his name, the selectors’ choice to name him as starter has raised eyebrows as he plays five-eighth in club football for Canberra, with Crichton a recognised centre for Penrith.
Add in Wighton’s oscillating form in 2022, and many have argued that Crichton should’ve started alongside Kotoni Staggs.
Although Alexander admitted the decision to bench the Panther was “difficult” he says Wighton had to be named in the four jersey due to his “aggressive” style of play.
“It was a very difficult decision coming up with who should fill the spots of Latrell Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic who were the centres in all three games last year,” Alexander said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“I think the fact that Jack’s played centre on five occasions and has done a good job, we just like the energy from Jack, the aggressive nature that he plays the game and Stephen is there to cover for the fullback, wing or centre spots.
“Jack’s won it because of the aggressive way he plays football, high-energy, he loves chasing kicks, that’s a big part of Origin.
“A big part of Origin isn’t the skill you bring to the game but what you do for your teammates.
“We’ve gone with Jack’s way in this one.”
Alexander also doesn’t believe Wighton’s lack of club form will affect his impact at the next level.
“In terms of big plays, Jack’s not making as many big plays as he did the year he won the Dally M,” Alexander said.
“But, that doesn’t mean he’s not suited to Origin.
“I agree with you in that he started the season well and then Canberra fell in a hole, but I thought he was outstanding what he offered the Raiders on the weekend against Parramatta.”
State of Origin Game I is set for Sydney’s Accor Stadium on Wednesday June 8.