As the countdown to Origin II intensifies, the Queensland Maroons have unveiled a bold new halves pairing that is already drawing comparisons to some of the most iconic duos in State of Origin history. With Tom Dearden set to start at halfback and Cameron Munster assuming the captaincy, rugby league fans and experts alike are reminiscing about the legendary combination of Allan “Alfie” Langer and Wally Lewis—a partnership that once dominated Origin football.
Westpac NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley, himself a former Origin great, did not hesitate to make the connection between Queensland’s new-look halves and the famous Langer-Lewis pairing that guided the Maroons to numerous victories in the 1980s and early 1990s. According to Daley, the similarities go beyond mere playing positions.
“There’s a chemistry there between Dearden and Munster that reminds me of Alf and Wally,” Daley said. “Dearden plays with the kind of energy and creativity we used to see from Langer, while Munster is that commanding, instinctive player who can turn a game on its head—just like Wally used to.”
Dearden’s promotion to the No.7 jersey for Queensland marks a significant moment in his career. The 23-year-old has worked tirelessly to earn his spot and now gets the opportunity to steer the Maroons in one of rugby league’s fiercest arenas. His selection comes at the expense of veteran Daly Cherry-Evans, who has been a mainstay in Queensland’s setup for over a decade. While Cherry-Evans’ omission came as a shock to some within the New South Wales camp, Daley insists the move was a masterstroke.
“I’ve been a big fan of Tom Dearden for a while now,” Daley said. “He’s fearless, he competes for everything, and he has that natural instinct you can’t coach. Queensland needed to freshen things up, and Dearden is the type of player who can give them that spark.”
Meanwhile, Munster’s elevation to captaincy signals a new leadership era for Queensland. Known for his unpredictable style of play and game-breaking ability, Munster now carries the responsibility of leading from the front. It’s a role that many believe will inspire him to new heights.
“Cameron Munster has always played with passion and flair,” Daley added. “But now, as captain, he’ll be expected to guide the younger players and set the tone both on and off the field. That could take his game to another level.”
The Maroons will face off against the Blues at Perth’s Optus Stadium on June 18 in what is shaping up to be a pivotal contest. With Queensland holding a 1-0 lead in the series, victory in Game II would secure yet another Origin shield. For Dearden and Munster, the stakes could not be higher—but if they perform anything like the legendary Langer and Lewis, Queensland fans have every reason to be optimistic.