“Special Player”: Maroon Carrigan Endorses Cobbo’s Potential…

“Special Player”: Maroon Carrigan Endorses Cobbo’s Potential

A brief hiatus from the game will significantly benefit Queensland and Brisbane outside back Selwyn Cobbo, according to teammate Patrick Carrigan. Carrigan supports the 22-year-old’s return to top form.

Despite his standout performance off the bench in the 38-10 win in Sydney, Cobbo was excluded from the Maroons’ lineup for game two of the State of Origin series against NSW in Melbourne.

Having been plagued by injuries, coach Billy Slater decided it was best for Cobbo and the Maroons for him to take time to recover both mentally and physically.

With the Broncos on a bye this week, Cobbo was allowed to return to his hometown of Cherbourg to spend time with family before resuming play.

The Indigenous community northwest of Brisbane offers Cobbo a retreat from the demands of professional sports.

“Selwyn is doing well. We talk regularly,” Carrigan said.

“Bill has addressed several reasons for Cobbo’s omission, mainly for him to heal.

“He’s taking some time off. He played tough for us, and even in game one of Origin, he was injured.

“He was heading to Cherbourg when I spoke to him, taking this time off on his own terms.

“He is a special player in this arena, and we’ll have him back for the Broncos.”

Carrigan, who plays for both the Broncos and Maroons, empathizes with Cobbo’s situation.

“I’m a bit older than him, but I know how tough the NRL season is mentally,” Carrigan said.

“It’s especially hard if you get injured early in the year.

“For much of the season, you’re dealing with pain for weeks, and it’s challenging.

“The best version of Selwyn is a healthy one. He’s shown great courage so far, so I’m eager for him to rest and return rejuvenated.”

Kurt Capewell, who will replace Cobbo in game two, also believes in the young player’s potential.

“Selwyn played excellently in the first game and keeps improving in both club and state games,” Capewell said.

“Billy saw this break as part of his growth, and I’m sure Selwyn will learn from it.

“He will become a better player and will have a long and successful career in the Origin arena.

“I look forward to seeing Selwyn in Origin again.”