Racing
League
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Golf
Olympics
Motorsport
Netball
Combat Sports
Basketball
Tennis
Other Sports
Sport Nation
FWC: MEX v RSA live on SN Extra'It hurts': Breakthrough Warriors star Ford opens up on Origin omission
Stephen Foote •  June 11th, 2026 2:05 pm
Jackson Ford | Photo: Photosport
NZ Warriors stand-out Jackson Ford admits being overlooked for State of Origin promotion has left a slightly bitter taste in his mouth.
Sitting second on the Dally M standings when the voting went behind closed doors last month, the front-rower has been one of both the Warriors and the NRL's breakthrough performers in 2026.
The Australian boasts per game averages of nearly 180 running metres, 39 tackles, and over 60 post-contact metres, numbers which have helped drive the Warriors up to second place on the NRL ladder.
But yet again, Ford's name was one of the glaring omissions when NSW coach Laurie Daley named his squad for next week's second match in Melbourne, where the Blues can wrap up the series with a victory.Â
"It hurts a little bit," Ford confessed. "But whatever Laurie (Daley) needs. I back the boys to get it done in game two."
Ford revealed he hadn't been contacted by Daley at any stage of the selection process, despite the coach stating his desire for versatile edge forwards - a mould he very much fits within.
Mitch Barnett on Jackson Ford's Origin omission
That lack of feedback from the coach has been a touch disappointing, says Ford, who concedes the uproar at his exclusion throughout the media may have exacerbated the situation.
Looking at the broader picture, the 28-year-old is proud to have simply developed to a degree where he's in the representative frame.
"I think I've probably looked at the media a bit too much and sort of felt (disappointed).Â
"But I've just got to take it back and look at sort of where I've come. I'm stoked to be in the midst of the Origin selections. That's a big achievement for me.
"I've just got to keep pushing forward and playing some good football."
Jackson Ford | Photo: Photosport
As for immediate matters, the Warriors turn home after a lengthy stint on the road to face a Cronulla Sharks side who are one of just three teams to get the better of the NZ side this season, prevailing comfortably 36-22 in Sydney back in Round 5.
Their last match at Go Media Stadium was back in late April, when they tipped up the Dolphins.
Refreshed from another bye, the Warriors are desperate to ensure they get their revenge in front of a footy-starved, sold-out crowd at Mt Smart on Saturday, Ford adds.
"We spoke about that (defeat). We've lost one now so we don't lose to them twice. We owe 'em one.Â
"The boys are itching. Feels like forever since we played back here.Â
"I feel like we're going to come out with lots of energy. It's a big occasion. We've had a week off, so we're ready to go."
Join Sport Nation for live commentary of the NZ Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks this Saturday from 5.30pm with the pre-game show at the NZ Rugby League Museum, kick-off 7.30pm.
Jackson Ford answers back in first half vs Panthers | Warriors Live
