The NSW Blues are facing a challenging task as they prepare for the 2026 State of Origin series, with a host of injury concerns and a need to find the winning formula. Coach Laurie Daley is under immense pressure to make the right calls, and the predicted team selection reveals a mix of experienced and inexperienced players. The team's success hinges on key positions, with a focus on the fullback, wingers, centres, five-eighth, halfback, prop, hooker, second-rowers, and lock.
Fullback:
James Tedesco emerges as the standout choice, with his X-factor and red-hot form making him a strong contender. Dylan Edwards, while equally deserving, may be seen as a safer option, but Tedesco's brilliance and potential to deliver in crucial moments give him the edge.
Wingers:
Brian To'o is a lock, but the other spot is a dilemma. Josh Addo-Carr's experience and strong form make him a strong candidate, despite narrowly missing out on the 2025 Ashes Series. The injury to Zac Lomax and the departure of Mark Nawaqanitawase leave Daley with a choice between Addo-Carr and newcomers Campbell Graham or Thomas Jenkins.
Centres:
Latrell Mitchell and Stephen Crichton are the incumbents, with Crichton's return from injury a boost. Bradman Best, Casey McLean, Kotoni Staggs, and Tolutau Koula will have to wait for their chance, with the team's depth in this position a strength.
Five-Eighth:
Mitchell Moses, a key part of Daley's plan last year, is favored over Jarome Luai, who has had a slow start to the season. Moses' versatility and strong kicking game make him a valuable asset.
Halfback:
Nathan Cleary, a world-class halfback, is a lock despite his past struggles in the Origin arena. His current form and leadership make him a must-have for the Blues.
Prop:
Addin Fonua-Blake is a certainty, but the other spot is a mystery. Keaon Koloamatangi and Mitchell Barnett, both with Origin experience, are favorites, but the injury to Liam Martin adds an extra layer of complexity.
Hooker:
Reece Robson, a strong defender, is the incumbent, but the role of dummy-half is crucial. Blayke Brailey and Api Koroisau, despite a three-match ban, are in the running, with Brailey's impact off the bench a potential game-changer.
Second-Rowers:
Angus Crichton, despite a slow start, has upped his work rate and is a dominant presence. Haumole Olakau'atu, a damaging player, is favored over Hudson Young and Jacob Preston, with the latter's injury a factor.
Lock:
Isaah Yeo, a ball-playing middle, retains his spot, with Cameron Murray and Victor Radley also in the mix. Murray's return and Radley's eligibility changes add depth to this position.
Bench:
The expanded bench allows for versatility, with Blayke Brailey, Mitchell Barnett, Jackson Ford, Cameron Murray, Tolutau Koula, and Ethan Strange all in the running. Connor Watson's exit and the selection of two dummy-halves create an interesting dynamic.
The predicted team showcases a blend of experience and youth, with Daley's decisions shaping the Blues' chances in the series. The injury concerns and strategic choices highlight the challenges faced by the coach, with the team's success relying on the right balance of talent and strategy.
