Has NSW made a mistake by reappointing Laurie Daley as Blues coach?

Queensland Maroons legend Corey Parker has questioned the appointment of Laurie Daley as NSW Blues coach for 2025 and beyond.

Parker made 19 appearances for the Maroons during the golden period for Queensland between 2004-16.

Parker said the choice of Daley was a shock given Daley’s previous stint as coach between 2013-2017 only yielded one series win.

“I was a little surprised,” Parker told SENQ.

“He was up against a really formidable Queensland during that (first stint) and it was during eight consecutive series wins for Queensland.

“He’s a terrific guy and I know him well (but) he’s left-field for me.

“He’s been there and done that and I guess it suits the powers above.

“I thought there was a real opportunity to go with someone like Matt King, Michael Ennis or Brett White. One of these younger guys who have been inside systems week in and week out of NRL sides.

“If I’m being honest, I was really surprised by Laurie’s appointment.”

Daley coached 15 Origin matches for NSW with a 6-9 record. Whilst Daley was at the helm for the drought breaking series win in 2014, he was also head coach for the Blues’ heaviest in Origin history.

The 52-6 loss in the 2015 Origin decider remains the heaviest defeat in State of Origin history.

Parker believes NSW needed to take a leaf out of Queensland’s books and hire a younger coach who is more in tune with the modern game.

“You just have to look at Billy Slater and his innovative ideas and what he’s been able to provide Queensland over the past few seasons,” Parker added.

“Billy had no head coach (experience) and he handled (Queensland) beautifully.

“I think Michael Ennis would be a terrific appointment but they’ve gone back in time to Laurie.

“I just thought it was a strange call from NSW. If I’m being fair, I was just really surprised.”

The 2025 State of Origin series begins at Suncorp Stadium for Game I on May 28.