State of Origin 2026: Mitchell Moses ruled out with hamstring injury, Ethan Strange set for Game 2 halves role
Mitch Moses has declared himself fit and ready for State of Origin II, easing concerns over the hamstring injury that forced him out of the series opener and kept him sidelined from NRL action in recent weeks. The returning New South Wales five-eighth said on Monday he is confident the injury will not limit him against Queensland at the MCG on Wednesday night, insisting he has completed enough work to perform at the level required for Origin football.
Moses missed Game I after injuring his hamstring in NSW camp just 48 hours before kickoff, opening the door for Canberra youngster Ethan Strange to make his Origin debut. Strange impressed in the opener and has been retained on Laurie Daley’s bench for Game II, though there had been some speculation he could be pushed into the starting side if Moses failed to convince selectors of his fitness. Moses eased those fears by taking part in a scrimmage session on Saturday and is expected to feature in Monday’s contact session in Melbourne.
The Parramatta halfback said the injury is not expected to affect his kicking game, explaining that the problem is on his non-plant leg and should not interfere with his role. He described the setback as only a minor strain and said he feels physically prepared to return. Moses also pointed to his established combination with Nathan Cleary as a major source of confidence, saying the pair have already built valuable understanding through Origin and international duties with the Kangaroos.
NSW are under pressure to improve their fast starts after a run of poor opening halves in recent Origin matches. Across the last four games, the Blues have conceded 68 first-half points, including a 20-6 deficit at halftime in Game I, where errors and missed tackles proved costly. Moses said the Blues know they must begin with more physicality and stay connected through their spine if they are to control the contest and avoid another slow start.
Laurie Daley has named five changes for Game II, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing to cover the injured Casey McLean, while Manly’s Tolu Koula is set to shift into the centres. Moses said the new-look side is focused on the bigger picture rather than individual selection battles, and admitted the call-up has given him renewed energy after a difficult period at club level with Parramatta.
He said the chance to return to the Origin stage is particularly meaningful given the Eels’ struggles in recent seasons. Moses described the opportunity to represent NSW as massive and said he is determined to make the most of it. While acknowledging Ethan Strange’s strong showing and the possibility that younger players may one day take over, Moses said his focus is on helping the Blues in the present. His message was simple: he is fit, confident and eager to get back on the field.
