Overview
- Ethan Strange delivered a standout State of Origin debut that helped NSW to a 22-20 series‑opening win and thrust him into contention for the starting five‑eighth role.
- Mitchell Moses missed Game I with a hamstring niggle and Daley has indicated Moses could return to the side if he proves his fitness in the coming weeks.
- Strange publicly credited Mitchell Moses and Nathan Cleary for mentoring him at camp and said their guidance helped his Origin performance.
- Blayke Brailey fractured his arm for Manly, creating a separate selection decision at hooker with Raiders forward Tom Starling presented as a leading candidate based on recent form.
- The final picks remain unresolved and will hinge on medical updates and club form because pundits argue selectors must choose balance and a running No.6 rather than reverting to reputation before Game II at the MCG.