The NSW Blues are facing a pivotal moment in their State of Origin campaign, with a team shake-up that could make or break their chances of success. After a disappointing loss in the 2025 series, coach Laurie Daley is under immense pressure to deliver a winning formula in 2026, and the upcoming Game One is the perfect opportunity to do so. However, the team is facing a host of injury concerns, which could throw a spanner in the works. With several key players ruled out, Daley is forced to make some tough decisions and introduce fresh faces into the fold. In my opinion, this is a make-or-break moment for the Blues, and the team selection will be crucial in determining their fate. The full-back position is a hotly contested battle between Dylan Edwards and James Tedesco, both of whom are equally deserving of the No.1 jersey. However, Tedesco, the 2025 Dally M Medallist, is in red-hot form and has the X-factor that could make all the difference. Personally, I think Tedesco is the better choice, but Edwards is no slouch either. The wingers' spots are also up for grabs, with Brian To'o and Zac Lomax having departed. The likes of Jacob Kiraz and Mark Nawaqanitawase were in contention, but injuries have ruled them out. This leaves Daley with a difficult decision: go with the experience of Josh Addo-Carr or hand a debut to Campbell Graham or Thomas Jenkins. I believe Addo-Carr will be the first choice, as he's in strong form and Daley knows what he's getting from him. The centres' spots are also up for grabs, with Latrell Mitchell and Stephen Crichton retaining their positions. However, the likes of Bradman Best, Casey McLean, Kotoni Staggs, and Tolutau Koula will have to wait their turn. The five-eighth position is a tricky one, with Laurie Daley having to decide between Jarome Luai and Mitchell Moses. Luai may have had a slow start to the season, but he's a key player for the Blues. Moses, on the other hand, complements Cleary perfectly and has a strong kicking game. I think Moses will be the choice, as he adds versatility to the team. The halfback position is a no-brainer for Nathan Cleary, who is in the best form of his career and is the current leader of the Dally M tally. The front row is also undergoing a shake-up, with Max King and Payne Haas sidelined due to injury. Addin Fonua-Blake is a certainty for one of the two spots, but the other is up for grabs between Keaon Koloamatangi and Mitchell Barnett. I believe Koloamatangi will start, as he has Origin experience and is a strong contender. The hooker position is also in flux, with Reece Robson retaining his spot due to his strong form and defensive prowess. However, Daley intends to use two dummy halves, which could create opportunities for others. The second-rowers' spots are up for grabs, with Angus Crichton and Liam Martin sidelined due to injury. Haumole Olakau'atu is a strong contender, as he's been a key player for the Sea Eagles and has a damaging presence in attack. The lock position is also up for grabs, with Isaah Yeo retaining his spot. However, Cameron Murray and Victor Radley are also in contention, and I believe Murray will make the team, despite missing the majority of last season with injury. The bench is also undergoing a shake-up, with Connor Watson exiting the team due to his versatility no longer being needed. Blayke Brailey is set to make his debut, while Spencer Leniu and Stefano Utoikamanu are omitted. I believe the final team will be a mix of experienced and inexperienced players, with Tedesco leading the way. In my opinion, the NSW Blues have the potential to turn things around and win the series, but it will take a strong team effort and some fresh ideas to make it happen. The team selection will be crucial in determining their fate, and Daley will need to make some tough calls to get the best out of his players. The 2026 State of Origin series is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, and the Blues will need to be at their best to come out on top.
