Max Plath Earns Lock Spot In Queensland's State Of Origin Game 1

Max Plath is in Queensland's 20-man squad at lock for state of origin game 1. The 24-year-old Dolphins forward got the nod over Patrick Carrigan, and the pick reflects a rapid climb that started after he moved out of the halves.

Plath’s Route Through The Middle

Plath began at the Broncos as a five-eighth, but he decided a move into the forwards would give him a better chance to play first grade. He described his time there as "It was a wake-up call when I went to the Broncos" and added "oh, shit" when he saw the quality around him.

That switch took hold at Wynnum Manly Seagulls, where he played lock in his first game there. "I got that opportunity and as soon as I played there Redcliffe saw me playing for Wynnum at lock in my first game and scooped me up," Plath said. "I was a lock from then."

Dolphins Saw Him At Lock

The Dolphins signed him ahead of their maiden NRL season in 2023 after watching him at lock for Wynnum Manly Seagulls. He returned to the NRL from an ACL injury in Round 2 this year, then filled in at hooker earlier this season when Jeremy Marshall-King was absent.

Billy Slater said Plath had forced his way into the conversation through his Dolphins form. "He's one player that's just said, 'I can't be left out of this team', and I love what he brings," Slater said. "This Queensland team values the things that Max Plath does. I can't wait to see him play Origin."

Grant Looks To The Middle

Harry Grant is already looking forward to lining up with him. "Max Plath is one I have watched over the last few years and I love the way he plays the game," Grant said. "Now he has got the ultimate reward for his efforts and game style. I am looking forward to lacing up with him in the middle."

Plath is the son of four-time Brisbane premiership winner John Plath, but his route to this squad came through a position change rather than a direct line through the Broncos’ halves. The selection gives Queensland another middle option for Game 1 and puts a rookie into the frame ahead of a proven Origin and Test forward.