To’o tips Luai to rise from NSW Origin axing

Jasper Bruce | July 5, 2023

Jarome Luai’s tumultuous two weeks that culminated in his State of Origin axing will be a stepping stone for the flamboyant five-eighth to grow as a player, says NSW winger Brian To’o.

Of the five Blues dropped on form after the Origin II thrashing, Luai’s spot appeared the most secure in the team heading into this year’s series.

But for the first time since making his Origin debut in 2021, Luai has been left out of the Blues side when fit and available.

He will be replaced by South Sydney veteran Cody Walker for the series finale on July 12 in Sydney, when the Blues will fight to avoid a rare series whitewash.

To’o, Luai’s good buddy and long-time Penrith teammate, said the 26-year-old had taken the omission in his stride.

“He’s pretty much doing all right,” To’o said.

“As long as he’s got his family’s support, I think he should be all right.

“He’s got three lovely kids, a beautiful partner as well, so I’m pretty sure he’s doing just fine.”

Since an image of Luai yelling at dejected Maroons forward Felise Kaufusi blew up on social media in the 2021 series, the Panthers No.6 has been Queensland’s favourite villain.

He and Maroons fullback Reece Walsh were sent from the field in the final minutes of game two for headbutting one another in a fracas, with Luai receiving social media death threats in the hours after the game. 

Some of the social media messages threatened his young family.

“He was pretty upset,” To’o said.

“There’s a certain line with criticism. Family threats and stuff like that, we don’t want to wish that upon anyone.

“Everyone’s got their own opinions. Not everyone’s got the same thoughts.

“All I know is he’s a really good person off the field. The way he plays on the field doesn’t determine or describe the person he is off the field.”

Like him or not, To’o said there was no denying Luai’s passion for the Origin arena nor his capacity to make it back to the Blues set-up in 2024.

“He wears that jersey with pride,” To’o said.

“He’s always putting his body on the line for the state and he plays his heart out.

“(Being dropped) is a stepping stone. It’s only going to make him a better player. 

“I’m pretty sure he’s going to go back to club land and play his heart out and hopefully come some time next year, he’ll get the same opportunities to play for the Blues again.”