Tom Dearden's ankle injury threatens State of Origin opener for Queensland
Cowboys playmaker Tom Dearden faces a race against time to be fit for the State of Origin series opener after suffering an ankle injury in Friday’s clash with Parramatta. The Queensland star was hurt during a second-half tackle but played on as North Queensland had no interchanges left. Concerns are now growing over his availability for the Maroons’ Game 1 side. The incident happened late in the match as Dearden attempted a break near the try line. Eels defenders Josh Addo-Carr and Joash Papalii brought him down, with the tackle sparking immediate concern. Commentator Braith Anasta called it a 'worrying moment' for Queensland, given Dearden’s strong form this season.
After the game, the 23-year-old was seen with his ankle heavily iced, unable to put weight on it. Cowboys coach Todd Payten later confirmed Dearden would undergo scans to assess the damage. Former Maroons mentor Kevin Walters labelled the injury a 'big one', warning it could hurt both the Cowboys and Queensland’s Origin hopes. Dearden’s running game has been a standout feature for both club and state this year. His absence would leave a significant gap, with fans already debating his potential replacement. Meanwhile, social media criticism targeted Addo-Carr, with some calling for a suspension over the tackle.
The scan results will determine whether Dearden features in the Origin opener on 5 June. Queensland’s preparations now hinge on his recovery, with the Maroons already weighing up contingency plans. The Cowboys, too, face a selection headache if their key playmaker is ruled out for an extended period.
