Dolphins winger Selwyn Cobbo is back in top form, making a strong case for a Queensland State of Origin recall, according to Maroons teammate Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow. Cobbo scored four tries in his past three games, all wins for the Dolphins, including a standout performance in Friday night's 32-10 victory over South Sydney at Magic Round.
The 23-year-old last played for the Maroons in 2024, but injuries to Melbourne winger Xavier Coates and poor form from Valentine Holmes have opened the door for a return ahead of the Origin series opener in Sydney on May 27. Cobbo's season averages of 175 metres in attack and 88.9 per cent tackle efficiency are career highs, and he has made 11 line breaks and scored six tries in 10 games this year.
Queensland selectors meet on Sunday to pick the side, and Tabuai-Fidow believes Cobbo deserves a spot. 'I think he's ready to go back in that arena,' Tabuai-Fidow said. 'You've seen how he has played since the start of the year. His carries out of yardage and his run-metres show he's a special player.'
Cobbo credited his improved fitness and work ethic for his form, saying he has been doing extras away from the club. His try-saving tackle on Rabbitohs winger Bayleigh Bentley-Hape at Suncorp Stadium highlighted his determination. 'I'm doing extras away from the club and I guess that helps a lot in my games,' Cobbo said.
While Cobbo's focus is on helping the Dolphins reach the top eight, he is ready if Maroons coach Billy Slater calls. 'I know Origin is the hardest game you ever play,' Cobbo said. 'It has been a while since I have played Origin but if that comes around I will look forward to it.'
Tabuai-Fidow, who scored nine of his 11 Origin tries at centre, expressed his preference to play fullback in the upcoming series, as he did in last year's decider. 'I know what I can do as a fullback and I thought I went out there and did my job as well, so I was comfortable there,' he said. 'But wherever Billy wants me to play, I'll be ready to go.'
