The Manly half was sensationally overlooked for Game III following Johnathan Thurston’s injury with Maroons selectors opting for debutant Cameron Munster.

Adding to his startling omission is the fact Bronco Ben Hunt was selected on the bench despite playing reserve grade just three weeks ago.

Cherry-Evans has been in scintillating form leading many experts to label his snubbing farcical supporting rumours he is on the nose with Queensland senior players and staff stemming from his Titans backflip two years ago.

Maloney’s dig is welcomed fire following a polite lead-up which has seen almost no verbal barbs shot between the states.

The Sharks half said what many are thinking in regards to Cherry-Evans startling snub despite lifting Manly to the top four.

“He’s playing good form. Do they hate him or what?” Maloney said.

Cherry-Evans taunted the Premiers in Round 16 leading Manly to a 35-18 trouncing of Cronulla at Shark Park.

Maloney said the Manly captain could do no more to warrant selection.

“He was in good form and gave us (the Sharks) a touch-up a couple of weeks ago,” he said.

“It doesn’t bother me, it doesn’t concern me. It’s not really my problem.”

Meanwhile, Blues enforcer Andrew Fifita has pledged to miss the birth of his child should his heavily pregnant wife Nikki give birth in the lead-up to tonight’s decider.

“I’m willing to miss my baby’s birth to wrap up the series and she’s been very supportive of that and wants a win just as much as we all do,” Fifita said.

“She understands and knows it’s my dream and wants me to be happy.”