Daly Cherry-Evans Dishes Out Key Advice to Origin Rookie Walker

Daly Cherry-Evans, the former AFL and NRL standout, has offered crucial guidance to Origin rookie Walker as the 2026 State of Origin series looms. The dual-code legend’s advice-delivered ahead of the first trial match-focuses on mental resilience and tactical adaptability, areas where Walker will need to excel against Queensland’s experienced squad.

What did Daly Cherry-Evans say to Walker?

Cherry-Evans emphasized the need for Walker to ‘stay composed under pressure’, a trait he honed during his own Origin debut. The 2026 series begins with trial matches in July, with the first game set for August 10 at Suncorp Stadium. Walker, a South Sydney Rabbitohs forward, was named in the NSW squad after a standout 2025 season.

Why Walker’s Origin debut matters

Walker’s inclusion marks a shift in NSW’s forward line, where Cherry-Evans himself played in 2019. The young player’s ability to read defensive patterns-a skill Cherry-Evans mastered-will determine his impact. Queensland’s midfield dominance means NSW will rely on fresh legs like Walker to disrupt their rhythm.

How Cherry-Evans’ experience translates

Cherry-Evans, now a Brisbane Lions development coach, drew parallels between AFL and NRL Origin. He stressed ‘the mental game is 60% of the battle’, citing his own struggles in early matches. Walker’s trial match performance will be scrutinized, with Cherry-Evans’ advice likely influencing his approach.

What’s next for Walker and NSW?

Walker’s first Origin trial is July 20, with the full squad announced July 25. Cherry-Evans’ input suggests NSW are banking on his physicality and work rate-areas where he outplayed Queensland’s forwards in past encounters. If successful, Walker could become a key weapon in NSW’s 2026 campaign.