LISTEN: Freddy and Joey put heads together to select Blues Origin team - with a few surprises
While most of the side was common ground, there were a few positions that needed negotiation and compromise.
NSW have been forced to rule two batsmen out of their Sheffield Shield opener because of concussion.
The Blues have named a 13-man squad, confirming Nic Maddinson and Daniel Hughes will both miss the Gabba clash with Queensland.
Hughes was substituted out of last Friday’s one-day cup elimination final after being struck on the helmet then missed Sunday’s final.
Maddinson also copped a blow to the helmet last Friday but batted on and took part in the Blues’ six-wicket win over Queensland on Sunday.
“Nic began feeling unwell during the latter part of the final and subsequently failed a further concussion test after the match,” NSW team doctor John Orchard said.
“As a result, he has been withdrawn from the Sheffield Shield squad.
“Cricket Australia’s concussion policy requires that players are monitored, including follow-up tests for signs of concussion in the days after a knock to the head.”
Test players Steve Smith, David Warner, Peter Nevill, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon have been included in a star-studded NSW squad.
Starc, who is set to return from a badly cut leg that required 30 stitches, will play a limited role in the match.
The left-armer will have strict bowling restrictions placed on him ahead of the next week’s firs Test, while he is also likely to field in the slips.
NSW 13-man squad: Steve Smith (captain), Doug Bollinger, Ryan Carters, Trent Copeland, Ed Cowan, Ryan Gibson, Josh Hazlewood, Moises Henriques, Nathan Lyon, Peter Nevill, Kurtis Patterson, Mitchell Starc, David Warner.
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While most of the side was common ground, there were a few positions that needed negotiation and compromise.
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