Shaun Wane on notice as England eligible man stars in State of Origin win

England coach Shaun Wane has a decision to make with NRL star Max King, as he impressed in Wednesday’s State of Origin.

Canterbury Bulldogs prop Max King made his Origin debut for New South Wales in a performance described as ‘terrific’ by coach Laurie Daley.

King has yet to declare his nationality but is eligible for England as he was born in Huddersfield, when his dad David was playing for the Giants, staying there until Max was seven years old.

It was a performance that is sure to have Shaun Wane’s attention as securing him for an England spot would be a real coo ahead of the Ashes series later in the year.

Whilst Payne Haas was awarded the player of the match, Haas himself was happy to give King his plaudits after the game.

He said: “We knew Max was going to kill it. What he brings to a team, what he does for the Bulldogs week in, week out. He did his job, and he killed it off the bench.”

King impresses on State of Origin debut as England debut in doubt

King received 7/10 ratings from most Australian media outlets, highlighting his ability to make metres and a solid defensive display too.

In his 39-minute stint off the bench, he made 106 metres from twelve carries as well as two tackle breaks and 21 tackles.

The rules around State of Origin and nationality are up for debate once again, but King is technically still available should Shaun Wane decide to call him up.

However, an England spot would mean he would have to sacrifice playing in another Origin series and considering his form in 2025, he could be an Origin star for many years to come.

King himself has been open to playing for either England or Australia, and when asked about it back in April, he stated he’d play for whoever rang him first.