Brian To’o’s availability for next week’s State of Origin match in Perth is uncertain due to a minor hamstring injury. According to Danny Weidler from Nine, the NSW winger is currently being rested but is anticipated to participate in the game. In anticipation of To’o potentially missing out, Jacob Kiraz from Canterbury has been brought into the camp as a standby option.
To’o made a significant impact in the series opener at Suncorp Stadium, where he achieved a game-high 225 metres and scored a try, contributing to a convincing win for the Blues. However, there are concerns over his fitness, given his previous issues with hamstring injuries which have kept him off the field for considerable periods during the season. He missed the opening match of the year in Las Vegas but returned for round two, only to be sidelined again for six weeks due to a recurrence of the injury. Since his return in round 10, Penrith has seen improved performance with To’o, winning twice and drawing against North Queensland.
While To’o remains the key player, his fitness is crucial as the Bulldogs’ Jacob Kiraz has shown outstanding performance this season with four tries and 46 broken tackles in just seven games. Additionally, Matt Burton, also from the Bulldogs, is part of the Blues squad and could step in for To’o if needed, providing more depth in the outside backs.
With the State of Origin clash approaching, monitoring To’o’s condition will be vital for the Blues as they look to build on their success from the first game.