Jarome Luai Ready to Step Up as Blues Call on Familiar Face for State of Origin Game II
New South Wales will lean on a proven campaigner in Jarome Luai as they prepare for Game II of the 2025 State of Origin series. The decision comes in the wake of unfortunate news for halfback Mitchell Moses, who has been ruled out with a calf strain sustained during training.
The injury setback was reported on Thursday, and with Moses unavailable for the crucial showdown in Perth, Blues coach Laurie Daley has turned to a player with prior Origin experience to fill the void.
Luai, a dynamic playmaker for the Wests Tigers and seasoned Origin competitor, featured in all three games during last year’s series. However, he was a surprise omission from Game I under Daley’s leadership, as the new coach looked to implement a fresh approach.
Despite the earlier snub, Luai has kept his head down and continued to perform strongly at club level. Now, with an opportunity to wear the sky blue jersey once more, he’s ready to grab it with both hands.
“I’ve been in this position before. I’ve done the work. I know exactly what’s required at this level,” Luai told Wide World of Sports. “We’ve got a quality group, and I just need to come in and play my role.”
The 28-year-old described the moment he received the call-up, revealing he had just wrapped up a tough training session with the Tigers when his phone rang.
“I was absolutely knackered. I’d just finished getting flogged on the field,” he laughed. “Then I got the call from Loz (Laurie Daley) and Frank Ponissi. I was pumped. I’m very thankful and excited to be given another chance.”
Luai made it clear he understands the weight of responsibility that comes with the role, especially given how competitive the field of potential replacements was.
“I know there were a few other directions they could’ve gone, but they’ve chosen me. I’ll make sure I do everything I can to repay the trust they’ve shown in me.”
Coach Daley spoke highly of Luai’s maturity and mindset, especially regarding how the playmaker handled missing out on selection for Game I. According to Daley, Luai never complained and assured the coach he would be ready to answer the call if needed.
“Jarome showed real professionalism and class when we left him out,” Daley explained. “He told me then, ‘If you need me later on, I’ll be ready.’ That stuck with me.”
“When I rang him today, his exact words were: ‘Sweet, I’m ready to go.’ That kind of attitude gives me all the confidence in the world.”
The return of Luai also reunites him with a familiar partner in the halves: Nathan Cleary. The two have shared significant success together, having led the Penrith Panthers to four consecutive NRL premierships before Luai’s move to the Tigers this year.
The chemistry between the two is undeniable. Their seamless connection, built over years of playing together at club level, could prove vital as the Blues look to bounce back in the series.
Their reunion comes at a critical time for New South Wales, who must win in Perth to keep their Origin hopes alive. Game I saw the Maroons take a 1-0 lead in the series, and Daley’s side will be under pressure to deliver a stronger performance the second time around.
Fortunately, the Blues possess remarkable depth in the halves positions. With players like Nicho Hynes, Luke Keary, and Matt Burton all in the conversation, Daley’s decision to bring Luai back into the fold is a testament to the trust he places in his ability and leadership.
Despite the competition, it’s the proven Luai-Cleary pairing that ultimately got the nod—offering a blend of creativity, structure, and the kind of understanding that only comes with years of high-pressure football together.
While some may have been surprised by Luai’s exclusion from the Game I squad, it’s clear he never let that disappointment affect his focus. His consistent performances at club level made him a logical choice when the need arose, and Daley wasted no time calling him in.
“I know what Origin is about,” Luai said. “It’s intense, it’s tough, and every moment matters. I’ve lived it, I’ve learned from it, and now I get another shot to show what I can do.”
As preparations ramp up for the must-win encounter, Luai’s presence in the squad brings not just experience but also a spark of belief. His flair, confidence, and history of rising to the occasion are exactly what New South Wales need heading into enemy territory.
Blues fans will be hoping that the familiar combination of Luai and Cleary can reignite the team’s campaign and keep the dream of a series win alive.
With just days remaining before the showdown in Perth, all eyes will be on how Luai slots back into the side—and whether his return will be the catalyst for a New South Wales resurgence.
