Cameron McInnes is one step closer to his State of Origin debut after being one of five players from outside the finals named in NSW’s squad.
McInnes had a dream Sunday, leading St George Illawarra to a 30-22 win over Melbourne and then being named the Dragons’ player of the year for a second straight season just hours after getting the news on Origin.
Incumbents Payne Haas, Tyson Frizell and Jake and Tom Trbojevic were the other players named to be included in Brad Fittler’s 27-man squad for the series on Sunday.
The Blues will continue to name players as their NRL seasons end, giving them notice to remain fit even while outside of the bubble before camp begins on October 19.
It means at this stage Zac Lomax and David Nofoaluma have been denied shots at a debut, while Dragons Paul Vaughan and Tariq Sims have been dropped.
It’s believed the Blues will however tap some players on the shoulder to say they could be brought in to the group if injuries hit during the finals series.
“This season has been extremely challenging for the game,” Fittler said.
“I believe they all will play a role in helping NSW defend the State of Origin Shield and I’m looking forward to working with them when we go into camp.”
Queensland will follow a similar method, and are expected to name their initial players after a series of medical assessments this week.
McInnes’ versatility gives him every chance to make an Origin debut.
While Damien Cook will likely be the first-choice hooker and Api Koroisau an alternative option, McInnes gives utility value if used off the bench.
He has impressed this year while playing mostly at lock for St George Illawarra, leading the club’s tackle count while still offering plenty of play-making opportunities.
Meanwhile the decision not to pick Lomax suggests Fittler will include either Stephen Crichton or Campbell Graham in his squad.
Both remain in the finals at Penrith and South Sydney, and would likely be needed for back-up if Tom Trbojevic is not fit for the series opener.
Jack Wighton would then be expected to hold his position on the other side at right centre.
TP.777
Roar Rookie
I think about cam he's as good as any other Hooker, and as good as many locks. But what makes him as good as anybody is his playing atm with all Heart, and his respect for mary must be apprehended, as not many of us had respect for the trade qualified painter. But Cam has and so did I for the no shame he had. Mary is a hard one you love him as as True Believer...but hate him as a coach!!!! You can't even beat heart over a better quality player...Heart is what the Blues and Freddy are looking for so pick this inspirational Man he will make any team the better with is inspirational attitude. Love mc Guiness
Succhi
Roar Rookie
I think a fair selection for the bench.
Albo
Roar Rookie
Its hard to quibble with the 5 selected , with 4 NSW incumbents and an ideal utility hooker / forward in McInnes. I would think the Turbo selection might be a bit of an injury risk that should have some cover within the squad, and it seems the brainstrust still think Lomax still needs more improvement ?
Nat
Roar Rookie
It's a deserved nod to his performances over the last 2 yrs but would he get a start in the stacked NSW team? If NSW were to lose Cook, who's the closest like-for-like replacement between him and Api? If he was to get a start, the whole dynamic for NSW would change. Essentially all attack would have to come from the 5/8 with Cam and Cleary following structures and Tede waiting to capatilise.