NSW and Queensland Team Lists Confirmed for Game 1
A Shock Freddy Call No One Saw Coming
The team lists for the opening State of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland have been confirmed, with a shock call from the Blues selectors the main talking point. Freddy Fittler has named uncapped Panther Stephen Crichton at five-eighth, ahead of the more experienced Jarome Luai. It's a bold move from Fittler, but one that could pay off if Crichton can replicate his club form at the Origin level.
Otherwise, the Blues team is largely as expected, with Nathan Cleary, James Tedesco, and Tom Trbojevic all named to start. Queensland, meanwhile, have made just one change to the team that won last year's series, with Murray Taulagi coming in for the injured Xavier Coates. The Maroons will be looking to start the series with a win and take an early lead in the race for the Origin Shield.
The match will be played at Stadium Australia in Sydney on Wednesday night and is sure to be a sell-out. NSW will be desperate to avoid a repeat of last year's series loss, while Queensland will be looking to extend their dominance. It promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the fiercest rivals in rugby league.
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