Laurie Daley has made a big call over who will line up for NSW, swinging the axe on four-time premiership winner Brian To’o for the State of Origin decider.
To’o has been a staple of the NSW Blues team since making his debut in 2021, but has had a relatively quiet run of performances with the Panthers this season.
Brian To’o has not missed a Blues game since his debut. Getty
A target under the high ball for the Maroons in game two, Daley opted in favour of Dolphins young gun Jack Bostock to step into the jersey that To’o has long held.
Bostock was named part of the extended squad that travelled to Melbourne for game two, with his ability in the air along with his height working in his favour.
“He is a big body and a good aerial threat,” Daley explained when asked about Bostock’s inclusion over To’o on Sunday evening.
“Jack is a young man who is getting his opportunity. We expect him to play well.
“It was a difficult decision (to cut To’o),” he continued.
“Bizza (To’o) has been one of my personal favourites … he’s been the Brad Fittler Medal winner. He has given great service to NSW, and I’m sure he will be back but just for this game we felt like we needed to make that change.”
Bradman Best also recalled into the NSW squad for the first time since 2024, claiming a spot in the centres along with Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton.
Kotoni Staggs had little to show for in his final game to impress Daley and outclass Crichton to play on the edge, recording just 69 run metres and no tries.
He drops out of the 20-man team entirely along with Dylan Lucas, who was replaced by four-time premiership winner Liam Martin. Tolu Koula moves to the bench.
Aside from the two edge attackers, Daley remained faithful to those who had featured in the sky blue jersey in the opening two games.
Haumole Olakau’atu will be looking to make an impact in game three after getting the nod to start on the bench, a decision which Daley feels is much needed.
“I think with Haumole, it was just a matter of the way we wanted to play in game two,” Daley said of his selection.
“The balance of our team for game three, just to have him on the bench, we believe he can make an impact in that position.”
NSW BLUES TEAM
1. James Tedesco 2. Jack Bostock 3. Bradman Best 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Mitchell Moses 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Payne Haas 9. Reece Robson 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Hudson Young 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Cameron Murray 15. Addin Fonua-Blake 16. Haumole Olakau’atu 17. Blayke Brailety 18. Ethan Strange 19. Tolu Koula 20. Victor Radley