Three years after last featuring for the NSW Blues, Keaon Koloamatangi is once again knocking on the door of a State of Origin recall.

One of the standout performers for the South Sydney Rabbitohs in the past two seasons, Koloamatangi has consistently produced high-quality performances on the field despite the side’s up-and-down form.

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This has been especially evident after transitioning from the edge to the middle, where his work rate and presence on both ends of the field have elevated his game to another level.

“I was lucky enough to play one game a couple of years ago,” Koloamatangi said.

“I probably haven’t been at my best the last couple of years but I’ve cemented a fine role spot at the club and I’m feeling like one of the better players in the comp in my position.

“It’s up to him [Laurie Daley] and I’m sure he’ll pick the best team possible and the team will get the job done but hopefully I get that call.

“I think they’ll look at the whole start of the year and I’ve been trying to play my best for the Bunnies and I feel like I’ve done that.

“Whatever rep team comes with it, I just want to make sure I don’t let my teammates down no matter who I play for. That’s my main priority.”

Koloamatangi last played for the Blues in 2023.Source: Getty Images

A member of last year’s Australian Kangaroos squad, where he played in all three matches against England, it has further strengthened his desire to once again don the Blues jersey.

However, he will face stiff competition for a spot in the line-up.

“It’s the pinnacle of the game. I think everyone in the NRL knows that and especially to play at home,” Koloamatangi added.

“It was one of the top jerseys I’ve worn in my career and just been very grateful to be able to play for the Blues.

“It was always a goal of mine to try and get back there, whether it’s this year, next year or whenever. I’ll keep trying to strive for that.”

Daley faces Origin selection headache | 01:01

With incumbents Max King (will play his first match this week after a jaw injury) and Payne Haas (injury) out of selection, coach Laurie Daley will call upon a new front-row pairing.

It is understood that Koloamatangi is in the mix to be named alongside Addin Fonua-Blake (Sharks), Jacob Saifiti (Knights), Jackson Ford (Warriors), Lindsay Smith (Panthers) and Mitchell Barnett (Warriors).

Meanwhile, recent rumours suggest that Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo has been mooted with a move from lock to the front-row.

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“We’ve been friends for a long time,” Rabbitohs teammate Tevita Tatola said.

“I’ve been with him for a long time so it’ll be good to see Key if he does get that opportunity to don the Blues jersey this year.

“Hopefully he does and it’ll be good to see.”

Campbell Graham is in the mix to represent the Blues.Source: Getty Images

Koloamatangi isn’t the only Rabbitohs star in the mix to be named for the Blues in Game One.

Cameron Murray and Latrell Mitchell are locks for the squad, while Campbell Graham is in the mix to play on the wing.

“Cam didn’t play last year because of his injury but I think he’ll be there,” Koloamatangi continued.

“Trell will be there (too) but I think Campbell deserves it. He’s probably one of the most underrated players in the comp.

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“I’ve been lucky enough to play with him since I was 15 and the stuff that he does on the field, especially as a back. As a middle, you sort of appreciate your backs that roll up their sleeves and do the dirty work for you,

“Campbell’s one of those blokes that does it week in, week out and in Origin you need those sort of players.

“To me I feel like he’s one of the best wingers in the comp and I think he deserves it.”