Mitch Moses has been confirmed as NSW’s halfback for the must-win second State of Origin game, while Reece Robson and Stefano Utoikamanu will make their debuts
But after Moses’ masterful performance in Parramatta’s 34-12 win over the Bulldogs on Monday, and with Fittler reverting to previous plans of carrying a hooker on the bench, there was no room for the reigning Dally M medallist.
Utoikamanu has bumped Pangai from the forward pack rotation after twice being selected on the extended bench – most recently in this year’s game one. Second-rower Hudson Young, the third debutant from the series opener game, has held onto his spot despite a quiet showing in the first game. Liam Martin and Cameron Murray have been named, despite suffering injuries since the opener. Dropped for the series opener, South Sydney hooker Damien Cook has earned an Origin recall after Api Koroisau went down with a jaw injury.
For only the second time at Origin level, Moses has been given the nod to mastermind the Blues at halfback, with Nathan Cleary sidelined through a hamstring injury. The pressure is already on Moses after Fittler opted to select him ahead of Adam Reynolds despite the Brisbane halfback’s big-game experience and intimate knowledge of Suncorp Stadium.
The game could hardly be more crucial for the Blues or Fittler. Fittler has previously conceded his job will be under pressure if the Blues go 2-0 down. He is currently the longest continually serving Blues coach but is in danger of losing back-to-back series if NSW cannot level after dropping game one.
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