Tensions between Queensland and New South Wales have flared again ahead of the State of Origin decider, as former Blues prop Aaron Woods reignited a war of words with Maroons coach Billy Slater. Woods doubled down on calling Slater a “grub” following the controversial decision to drop veteran halfback and captain Daly Cherry-Evans from the Queensland squad.
Slater had previously delivered an emotional press conference defending his decision, insisting it was made in the team’s best interests and calling for respect. But Woods wasn’t having it, calling Slater’s remarks “completely unnecessary” and accusing the Maroons coach of crossing a line by making the issue personal.
“He made it about character. That’s not what this was,” Woods said. “He dropped a loyal captain before a decider. That’s not the Queensland way—and people have a right to question it.”
The public spat has added further fire to an already boiling rivalry, with both camps now entrenched in off-field psychological warfare. As the countdown to Game 3 continues, all eyes will be on Slater—not just for his tactical decisions, but for how he handles the growing pressure from both inside and outside the Maroons camp.
