Payne Haas Challenged to Rise to Origin Dominance

There has been a spotlight on Payne Haas, the formidable prop, urging him to step up and dominate the Origin arena. Concerns have been raised regarding Haas’s performance in representing the Blues, which falls short of his outstanding form when playing for the Broncos.

An analysis comparing Haas’s statistics in Origin matches to his numbers in the NRL clearly shows a disparity in his level of play. While he averages 160 meters per game in the NRL, this number drops to 111 in Origin matches. Additionally, there is a noticeable difference in tackle busts (3.62 per game in the NRL versus 1.25 in Origin) and post-contact meters (70 per game in the NRL compared to 45 in Origin).

The discussion was brought up on the NRL360 panel, with host Braith Anasta highlighting the discrepancy between Haas’s dominant club form and his performance for New South Wales in the State of Origin. James Hooper from Fox League acknowledged Haas’s accolades at the Broncos but pointed out his struggle to deliver for the Blues in Origin clashes.

Gorden Tallis weighed in by noting that stats don’t always provide the full picture when comparing Origin and club performances but emphasized the need for Haas to elevate his game for his state team. While Haas has fulfilled his role in State of Origin, he has yet to truly assert dominance on the field for the Blues.

Hooper added that legendary front-rowers like Glenn Lazarus, Shane Webcke, Petero Civoniceva, Steve Roach, and Mark O’Meley have shown the ability to perform and secure series victories in the unforgiving State of Origin arena. The challenge now lies with Haas to step up and make a significant impact for New South Wales.