Versatile Max Plath is one of six Dolphins players in the frame to play for Queensland this year, and one Maroons warhorse insists he is tailor-made for the promotion.
Affectionately known by fans as "Mad Max" and "Psychoplath", the 24-year-old has been shining at hooker for the Dolphins and had his best game of the season in a 28-10 win over Melbourne on Friday night.
Dolphins fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, a Maroons regular, will be selected at wing or centre for the State of Origin series opener on May 27 in Sydney.
Second-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki has been the Dolphins' best forward this season. The Tongan international made the Maroons' extended squad in 2025 and is close to an Origin debut.
Dolphins forwards Thomas Flegler and Tom Gilbert haven't been at their brilliant best since returning from long-term injuries, but both are highly regarded by Queensland selectors for the job they have done at Origin level in the past.
Outside back Selwyn Cobbo, who has played six Origins for Queensland, is also a candidate for selection.
Plath is yet to play Origin, but his ability to handle multiple positions in the forwards is a key asset, along with his toughness in defence and work ethic.
Maroons coach Billy Slater has said repeatedly he looks for "good habits" in prospective Queensland players. Plath has that box ticked and provides the "contingencies" that Slater values in bench players.
With Origin teams to now name 19-man squads with six on the bench, Plath's stocks are on the rise for a debut at some stage in the series.
"If Billy gives me a call I would be so stoked," Plath said.
"My preferred position is playing lock and in the middle. You have to be fit to be play hooker, and getting a lot of confidence there has added another string to my bow. I can play back-row as well."
Dolphins co-captain Gilbert has no doubt about Plath's Origin credentials.
"Max is built for it. He has been tremendous for us since he came back from injury. He can play anywhere and do a great job," Gilbert said.
Plath said he had worked hard on his passing game at hooker. He set up two tries against the Storm with slick balls, and his running game was also on-song.
In a club twist, he may have to give up the No.9 jersey as soon as Thursday night's home clash with Canterbury as regular rake Jeremy Marshall-King nears a return from a knee injury.
"He is our best option at hooker, so I am just keeping it warm for him until he comes back," Plath said.
"Whatever happens I just want to be in the team somewhere."
Plath will get his wish on that score. Big games against the Bulldogs and then South Sydney before the Queensland squad is named will only help his cause in being named "somewhere" for the Maroons.
