Jarome Luai emerges as leader for NSW Blues in training camp; Michael Maguire, Penrith Panthers, interview

Jarome Luai has emerged as one of the key figures for the NSW Blues in the State of Origin opener – and without his trademark boombox.

The 27-year-old was recalled to the side in the midst of an injury crisis for game one. He will partner Cronulla star Nicho Hynes in a new-look halves combination.

Luai was named among the leadership group for the Blues by new coach Michael Maguire, despite being axed less than a year ago after back-to-back series losses.

READ MORE: Moving video message before rugby league legend’s death

READ MORE: Adam Scott’s insane record in danger after all-Aussie playoff

READ MORE: IndyCar driver cops ‘hate and death threats’ over clash

Speaking to 9News Sydney during camp, the polarising Penrith five-eighth said the fire to perform at Origin level was still inside him after last year’s setback.

“It didn’t hurt – I don’t want to say that I felt it coming, but once the series losses start to come, you sort of feel like it’s someone else’s turn,” Luai said.

“Coming into this year, it was always the goal of mine to get back in this jersey. I’m so motivated and passionate about getting it right. 

“There are always gonna be doubts from critics and things like that, but it’s all outside noise to me … I’ve always known I’ve been capable.”

Luai helped his state to a series win in 2021 alongside club teammate Nathan Cleary, but will be forced to step up this year without the NRL’s elite playmaker, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Watch the 2024 State of Origin series exclusively live and free on Nine and 9Now.

Missing from this camp, which saw the squad travel to the Blue Mountains instead of their usual Coogee base, was Luai’s music choices and boombox speaker.

“It’s time to talk and tell our community and the people of NSW how much this means to us,” he explained.

“I’ve put it on pause, but I’ll put it on play again soon. Madge is big on culture.”

In recent years, the large personalities from the successful Penrith system – headlined by Luai, Stephen Crichton and Brian To’o – have dominated the energy and vibe in the Blues locker room, but many have taken aim at the trio for their antics.

Former coach and NSW legend Laurie Daley believes the move from Luai was designed to bring the group together and make sure the entire squad feel at home.

“You’ve got to make sure everyone is comfortable,” he said on Big Sports Breakfast.

“One thing Madge has really instilled in this team, from what I’ve been hearing and seeing – they’re talking about this is NSW. It’s not their club sides, it’s not Australia.”

The opener kicks off on Wednesday night at Accor Stadium.