Dallas who? Myles ready to lock in Qld spot
NATE Myles is set to take the baton from Dallas Johnson as Queensland looks to extend its State of Origin record to five series.
Herberton product Johnson has worn the No. 13 jersey for the past four of the Maroons’ series wins.
But he has forfeited his Origin place this season after linking with French club Catalans Dragons.
Queensland selector Gene Miles said there was no chance Johnson would be recalled from Europe.
"Unfortunately, they’ve closed that little window – the Alfie window as we call it," Miles said, referring to Allan Langer’s cameo in the final game of the 2001 series after returning from the English Super League.
"They won’t allow that again.
"We’ve got to move on from Dallas, but who knows, he might be back in a couple of years.
"He’s played a very important role in the State of Origin success we’ve had over the last four or five years."
But Myles, who made his debut with Johnson in 2006, could be the man to step in at lock after shifting to the back of the scrum with the Roosters this season.
Miles last year ruled out the chance of Myles being banished by Queensland for off-field indiscretions and he had been pleased to see him take on a leadership role at the Roosters.
"He now has taken a responsibility role at the Roosters, I think Brian Smith has thrown that upon him, which is great to see, and (Maroons coach Mal Meninga) is also looking for him to step up as a senior member of the (Origin) team," Miles said.
"He’s been there – similar to Dallas – right throughout our success (over the past four years).
"It’s great to see him as fit as he is. The ground he covered (in the Roosters’ NRL win against South Sydney) on Sunday was tremendous.
"There were cover-defending tackles like ‘Chook’ Raper again in the old days."
Myles has been used mainly as a second-rower in Origin, occasionally shifting into the front row.
And Miles said while a range of players had a chance to put their hand up over the next several weeks, Myles could be Queensland’s answer at lock.
"I think the loss of 10kg and playing at the back of the scrum suits him a lot better," Miles said.
"He is a typical State of Origin player, we’ve always said that.
"Reputations don’t mean much to Nate, he just rips in and has a go. That’s exactly what we look for in a State of Origin player."
Share this article
Leaner and meaner: Nate Myles is being earmarked as Dallas Johnson's replacement at lock for the Maroons.
Derailed Patterson seeks energy lift
CAIRNS swimmer Grant Patterson is determined to ensure a mishap with an airconditioner doesn't derail his quest to qualify for the Paralympic world championships.
Feldman shines, but Vics take early control
Victoria capped a fine comeback against Queensland by reaching 9-286 at stumps after the first day of the Sheffield Shield final at the MCG.
Lockyer has more to offer: Miles
QUEENSLAND Origin selector Gene Miles says Maroons captain Darren Lockyer can have "as long as he likes" to decide on his representative career.
Northern Pride's Riethmuller to cop ban
THE Pride is unlikely to gamble on challenging Joel Riethmuller's grade three dangerous throw charge and accept a four-week ban for their second-rower.
Proud Michael takes great leap forward
AFTER spending more than a decade on the last line of defence, AFL great Mal Michael is enjoying a new life as a goal-kicking game-breaker.
