Laurie Daley has unveiled the NSW Blues squad for the highly anticipated State of Origin opener. Nathan Cleary will team up with Mitchell Moses in the halves, while Max King is set to make his debut from the bench, marking a significant turnaround in his career after overcoming injuries during his tenure at the Storm. King joined the Bulldogs three years ago, facing a critical point in his professional journey.
Dylan Edwards retains his position at fullback, while star prop Payne Haas will start despite recent concerns over a quad injury sustained in round 11. Haas is joined on the injury list by centre Stephen Crichton, who is grappling with a groin issue. In light of this, Campbell Graham from Souths and Stefano Utoikamanu from Melbourne have been added to the squad as backups.
Additionally, Hudson Young has been re-selected to join the bench, while Zac Lomax and Brian To’o have kept their wing positions, despite both players only returning to the game following injuries. Latrell Mitchell is also confirmed in the centres for the Blues.
The complete NSW Blues squad for the opening game is as follows: Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, Stephen Crichton, Latrell Mitchell, Zac Lomax, Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary, Mitch Barnett, Reece Robson, Payne Haas, Angus Crichton, Liam Martin, Isaah Yeo, Connor Watson, Spencer Leniu, Hudson Young, and Max King. The reserves include Campbell Graham, Stefano Utoikamanu, and Haumole Olakau’atu.
The Blues will be looking to build on their strengths while navigating the challenges posed by player injuries. This season’s State of Origin promises to deliver thrilling matchups as the players gear up for intense competition.