Former NSW halfback Brett Kimmorley believes Knights halfback Mitchell Pearce is the best option for the Blues Origin side.
Newcastle's Kalyn Ponga recent move to fullback has opened up an entire new side to Pearce's game, which has allowed him to step up and perform at a much higher level.
Speaking on NRL.com, Kimmorley praised Pearce's strong defence and leadership.
"Cody Walker and Luke Keary are number sixes. (Pearce) is the best halfback NSW has at the moment. But we won't pick him."
Kimmorley suggested that Pearce's reputation has been tarnished by by Queensland's Origin dominance in recent years.
Youngster Nathan Cleary was also a topic of conversation, with Kimmorley taking back comments from last week that Cleary was the right man for the halfback role at the Blues.
The 21-year-old has come under scrutiny due to his poor form this season amid Penrith's struggles.
"I am massively doubting he (Cleary) should be any more," Kimmorley stated.
"He is offering nothing in attack."
Funny that. I said the same thing at the begining of the year, didnt I ChocolateSoldierOfDivide ๐๐คฃ๐ ๐๐๐๐ค๐๐คฃ
What’s that saying? The definition of insanity is repeatedly doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result…
Good one Noddy.
Once again Kimmy is proving how much of a dope he is.
Reynolds is 100 times better than Pearce.
Do agree here, Pearce has proven over a few years heโs a top quality halfback and heโs current in some good form. Iโd definitely call him the best halfback right now but Cleary is the younger option and in glimpses shows amazing talent but currently heโs not as good as Pearce. Reynolds has the best kicking game in the NRL in terms of 40/20 ability, pinning a team down in the corners or getting repeat sets. Heโs also shown a running game but he is injury prone and he also doesnโt have the leadership or organisation skills of Pearce. Pearce definitely steps up a notch when needed and wants the ball in his hands whereas I think Reynolds tryโs to hard at times and forces things.
I know there is only 3 halfโs in contention of origin Maloney, Cleary and Keary but the best halves right now would be Pearce, Keary and Walker.