Predicting the NSW Blues Origin Team for Game I

With Origin I fast approaching, it’s time to name the team that should run out for the Blues. Here’s my 1-17 — plus a breakdown of the hotly debated positions.

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✅ The Team

1. James Tedesco
2. Brian To’o
3. Latrell Mitchell
4. Stephen Crichton
5. Zac Lomax (Jacob Kiraz if injured)
6. Mitchell Moses
7. Nathan Cleary
8. Payne Haas
9. Reece Robson
10. Mitch Barnett
11. Liam Martin
12. Angus Crichton
13. Isaah Yeo

14. Connor Watson
15. Spencer Leniu
16. Hudson Young
17. Terrell May
18. Matt Burton

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🗣 Up For Debate

🔁 Fullback

Tedesco’s form, toughness, and Origin record make him the right call. Dylan Edwards was great in 2024, but he’s struggled with form and injury in 2025. Ryan Papenhuyzen is the wildcard — he's in explosive form and offers attacking spark off kick returns. Still, Teddy’s the man… for now.

🪽 Wing

Brian To’o is a lock. Zac Lomax has likely done enough to earn the second wing spot — goal kicking, elite yardage, and aerial strength. If he's unavailable, Jacob Kiraz feels next in line. Turbo and Addo-Carr are also in the conversation but would be surprises.

🧱 Centres

This isn't even a discussion — Latrell and Critta are the guys. Best and Turbo haven't played well enough or consistently enough to unseat them. Both Latrell and Crichton dominated in Round 10 and should be locked in.

🧠 Halves

Moses and Cleary give NSW two elite kickers, strong runners, and smart game managers. Luai has performed in the past and deserves respect, but these two are the best halves in the comp right now. They’ll get the best out of this forward pack and backline.

🪨 Props

Payne Haas picks himself. Spencer Leniu brings the aggression and impact off the bench. Mitch Barnett adds aggression, versatility and go-forward, while Terrell May has been the breakout middle in 2025. Jake Trbojevic and Saifiti are in the mix but feel a step behind.

🔁 Second Row

Liam Martin is made for Origin. Angus Crichton has earned his jersey with 12 months of quality footy. Hudson Young could easily start, but his value off the bench as an energy guy who can play middle or edge is huge.

🧢 Lock

Isaah Yeo owns this jersey. Cam Murray is out injured, so there's no debate here.

🧰 Utility

Connor Watson proved his value in 2024. He covers dummy half, middle, and even halves in a pinch. If you wanted to get funky, Matt Burton could be considered — he covers 1-7 and adds a huge kicking game. But I’m leaning Watson for versatility and punch through the middle.

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💬 Final Thoughts

This side is stacked. If the Blues pick something similar to this 17, they'll be rightful favourites. But with Laurie Daley in charge… anything could happen.

Next up: Queensland.