Haumole Olakau’atu expressed his readiness to return for the New South Wales Blues in the State of Origin series decider, following his unexpected omission from game two. The Manly Sea Eagles forward, widely regarded as one of the premier edge forwards in the NRL, was dropped for the match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a decision that has puzzled many supporters. Olakau’atu declined to elaborate on conversations with NSW coach Laurie Daley regarding the selection choices.

Despite the late hour and the recent disappointment of a golden point loss to the Bulldogs, Olakau’atu took time to address the media about his situation. He acknowledged the difficulty of the past few weeks but indicated he has moved past the setback and focused on continuing his form. The powerful second-rower impressed again in Manly’s latest fixture, recording 154 metres and nine tackle breaks despite playing through a shoulder discomfort described as a stinger.

Olakau’atu played in the Origin opener, where he was forced off late due to cramps but was notably absent from the bench in the subsequent MCG clash. He urged the selectors to consider him for the upcoming game three at Suncorp Stadium and remains hopeful of a recall. "I’d like to think the door is open," he said, noting ongoing communication with Daley and his availability for selection. "It’s obviously up to ‘Loz’ and the other guys to choose the best squad possible for game three."

Manly coach Kieran Foran weighed in on Olakau’atu’s prospects, praising his unique contributions to the team’s forward pack. “I wouldn’t have any other back-rower in the country ahead of Haumole,” Foran stated. “What he brings is different to what many other backrowers can bring, and I absolutely love that about him.”

In parallel, Manly fullback Tom Trbojevic has delivered a promising performance in his first NRL appearance since suffering a hamstring injury in round seven. Trbojevic ran for 169 metres and contributed three line-break assists, positioning himself as a candidate for Origin selection. The Blues are reportedly considering several options for their backline ahead of game three, including Latrell Mitchell, Stephen Crichton, Bradman Best, Jack Bostock, and Trbojevic himself.

Trbojevic remained focused on his club duties, emphasizing the need to improve his performances to strengthen his case for representative honors. “I haven’t played footy for a while, so I need to play better than tonight to be in the frame for those types of jerseys,” he said.

With the decider approaching, the Blues selection panel faces critical decisions on both edges and the backline as they strive to overturn the series deficit and claim victory in game three.