NRL Immortal Mal Meninga names his State of Origin bolters

NRL Immortal Mal Meninga has named his State of Origin bolters as selection conversations heat up amidst eligibility debates.

The criteria for State of Origin selection has been in the headlines after multiple high-profile players reportedly committed to represent tier-two nations.

However, with Game 1 in exactly seven weeks, the man who led Queensland to a defining eight consecutive series wins has highlighted seven players he believes are in the frame for an Origin debut.

“I think there’s a whole group of players putting their hand up,” Meninga told SENQ Breakfast.

“The competition is so even, I think there’s quite a few.

“Both coaches have got some selection dilemmas this year because there’s so many players putting their hands up!”

1. Trent Loiero

Loiero has enjoyed a strong start to 2025, playing lock for the Melbourne Storm and averaging 29 tackles and 113 metres a game. Loiero was selected in Queensland’s extended side last year for Game 2, and, in an interview at the time, coach Billy Slater said the lock had earned his position after strong on-field performances.

"You don't win a raffle ticket to come into this camp and be in this position. (Trent) earned it through their actions (with) their club," Slater said.

"I worked with Trent closely down in Melbourne, and I know what he brings to his footy team, and I really like that in a player."

2. Terrell May

Terrell May departed the Sydney Roosters at the end of 2024 under mysterious circumstances but has proven himself a leader of the Wests Tigers pack since arriving. The prop has averaged an incredible 69 minutes thus far in 2025, notching an average of 40 tackles and 178 running metres per game.

3. Corey Horsburgh

Corey Horsburgh has already represented Queensland in the Origin arena once before back in 2023, but after a tough 2024, the firebrand Raiders forward has returned to his best form and firmly placed himself in line for a recall. Averaging 34 tackles and 121 metres per game, Horsburgh has developed into a crucial player in the Raiders’ campaign.

4. Jacob Preston

Debuting in 2023, Jacob Preston has emerged as one of the competition’s best second rowers, building on a strong first two seasons. The Bulldogs’ young gun appeared on The Run Home with Joel and Fletch recently to discuss his Origin aspirations.

“I think every player would be lying if they said they didn’t have those ambitions,” Preston said.

“The main priority for me is playing good footy for the Bulldogs.

“There’s some very quality players there so what happens happens.”

5. Braydon Trindall

The Sharks’ five-eighth has impressed partnering Nicho Hynes over the first month of the competition, building on a strong finish to season 2024. Trindall is averaging just under a try assist a game and 372 kick metres, and spoke on SEN 1170 about his goals for 2025.

“One of my goals is to push for an Origin spot this year,” Trindall told Breakfast with Vossy and Brandy back in February.

“(I had) a good finish to the year… I put my best foot forward for my team.

“I think it’s going to be a good year.”

6. Tyran Wishart

Wishart broke onto the rugby league scene last season, complimenting Jahrome Hughes in the halves for his Dally M winning season while rep star Cameron Munster was out injured. Wishart has become a vital part of the Storm’s bench rotation, with his ability to play any position valuable for the side as they push for a premiership this season.

7. Xavier Savage

Once considered the Raiders’ long-term fullback, Xavier Savage has found a home on the wing in Canberra, scoring three tries over the first five rounds and running for 147 metres a game. An incredible two try and 219m performance in Las Vegas to start the season launched Savage into the Origin frame, and being a part of Canberra’s winning start means the winger could push for a spot in Billy Slater’s side.

Origin Game 1 will play on May 28 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.