Blues name six rookies in new-look team for Origin opener
Jake Trbojevic to captain inexperienced NSW side
Sea Eagles forward Jake Trbojevic will lead a youthful NSW Blues team into battle in the State of Origin series opener at Accor Stadium on June 5.
Trbojevic’s appointment as captain is a surprise, with many expecting incumbent skipper James Tedesco to retain the role. However, coach Michael Maguire has opted for the experienced Trbojevic to guide a team that includes six debutants.
The Blues will be without a host of stars, including Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, Latrell Mitchell, and Jarome Luai, who are all injured. As a result, Maguire has been forced to make several changes to his squad.
The most notable inclusions are Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary, who will make his Origin debut, and Roosters fullback Joseph Suaalii, who is just 19 years old.
Maguire is confident that his young team can make an impact in the series.
“We’ve got a lot of young talent in this team, and I’m excited to see what they can do,” he said.
“We’re going to be underdogs in this series, but we’re not afraid of a challenge.”
The Blues will face a tough test in the series opener against a Queensland team that is looking to win its first series since 2017.
Key Points
- Jake Trbojevic will captain the NSW Blues in the State of Origin series opener.
- The Blues will be without a host of stars, including James Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, Latrell Mitchell, and Jarome Luai.
- Six debutants have been named in the Blues squad: Nathan Cleary, Joseph Suaalii, Angus Crichton, Liam Martin, Cameron Murray, and Jacob Saifiti.
- The Blues will face a tough test in the series opener against a Queensland team that is looking to win its first series since 2017.
Who are the new faces in the new-look NSW Blues team?
The six debutants in the NSW Blues squad are:
- Nathan Cleary (halfback)
- Joseph Suaalii (fullback)
- Angus Crichton (second row)
- Liam Martin (prop)
- Cameron Murray (lock)
- Jacob Saifiti (prop)
These players will be hoping to make a big impact in the Origin series and help the Blues to victory.
also read:What are the surprises in the 2024 NSW Origin team selection and captaincy decisions?
Deepika