The New South Wales Blues are facing another injury concern just two days before the State of Origin series opener. Centre Stephen Crichton was seen limping off the training field at Ballymore on Monday, prompting worries about his fitness for the crucial match. A video reported by The Sydney Morning Herald revealed Crichton with heavy padding or ice applied to his left thigh, raising alarm among fans. Initially, he appeared without any strapping on either thigh, indicating the suddenness of the situation.
In an attempt to alleviate concerns, Blues utility Connor Watson addressed the media, suggesting that Crichton’s issue seems minor. “He’s all good, just had a bit of ice on his quad,” Watson commented, speculating it might simply be a corked thigh. He remained optimistic, stating, “You can ice them up, get a bit of heat into them and you’ll be sweet.”
Crichton, who captains the Canterbury Bulldogs, is one of the standout performers in the NRL, and his absence would be a significant setback for the Blues. It’s worth noting that he brought an existing injury into the Origin camp, but there are contingencies in place; Campbell Graham is available to step in should Crichton be unable to play.
Additionally, the Blues are keeping a cautious eye on prop Payne Haas, who is grappling with a hamstring issue. Haas also had a light training session and will need to showcase his fitness during the captain’s run on Tuesday, the last chance for players to prove their readiness before the clash at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday.
In an interesting twist, the Blues had a surprise visit from former Queensland Origin player Les Kiss during their training. Kiss, who is currently coaching the Queensland Reds and is set to be the new Wallabies coach, caught Watson off guard, as the utility admitted to not knowing much about Kiss’s distinguished career with the Maroons.
As the team prepares for this highly anticipated match, the focus remains on Crichton and Haas, hoping for their swift recovery to full fitness.