Queensland legend calls for Fermor to start over Cotter in Game I

Queensland Maroons great Brent Tate believes coach Billy Slater should start Gold Coast Titans backrower Beau Fermor over North Queensland forward Reuben Cotter.

Fermor was named on the interchange bench in Queensland’s Game I squad and is set to make his representative debut. Despite Cotter largely playing at prop or lock at club level, he has been named to start in the second row.

Tate, who played 23 games for Queensland, has endorsed Fermor over Cotter given his strong form to start the 2025 season.

“I have absolutely loved watching Beau Fermor,” Tate told SENQ Breakfast.

“He played the Cowboys up in Townsville a few weeks ago and I thought then and there that he was going to be named in the Queensland side.

“I would like to see him start to be honest. I’d then bring Reuben on (from the bench) to have an impact.

“Throw Beau in there because he’s big enough and he’s physical enough.

“It would also be good for his head to start him as well. It’s not a change that I’d be surprised if it happens but it makes sense in my eyes.”

Fermor is one of three debutants for Queensland which includes Melbourne Storm lock Trent Loiero and Sydney Roosters centre Robert Toia.

The 20-year-old joins Payne Haas as the least experienced player to make their State of Origin debut in the NRL era with just 10 first grade games under his belt.

“He’s had to come back from two big injuries at a really young age,” Tate added.

“He’s obviously built for the right stuff so I’m stoked for him.

“He’s had to come back from two knee reconstructions. The disciplines and habits, he’s had to have them.

“Those are big injuries to have as a kid to to be able to come back through rehab with resilience is incredible.

“He’s got a big job ahead of him and nothing will prepare him to run out at Suncorp Stadium.

“Billy has given him all the faith in the world and if Billy has given him faith, the entire state of Queensland will too.”

Game I will be held at Suncorp Stadium on May 28.