State of Origin Game 2 Live: Mitch Moses Selection Confirmed as NSW Blues Team Takes Shape, Major Reece Walsh Decision Looms

New South Wales and Queensland are moving toward significant changes for State of Origin Game 2, with both squads expected to be reshaped by injuries, form concerns and selection calls. Blues coach Laurie Daley is reportedly set to pair Mitch Moses with Nathan Cleary in the halves, a move that would leave Ethan Strange, despite his strong Game 1 performance, without the No. 6 jersey. Front-rower Addin Fonua-Blake is also believed to be headed back to the bench, making room for the return of Payne Haas, while Mitchell Barnett is expected to keep his starting prop role. Jacob Saifiti is tipped to be omitted from the 19-man squad after failing to take the field in the opener.

Another key issue for Daley is the vacant bench spot left by injured hooker Blayke Brailey. Api Koroisau and Connor Watson are reportedly battling for that role, with Wayde Egan likely to miss selection. In the centres, Casey McLean’s impressive debut in Game 1 has prompted calls for him to replace Stephen Crichton, who has been below his best for the Bulldogs and is now facing a shoulder complaint. McLean also briefly left the field with an ankle issue, but has indicated the injury is not serious. Even so, the uncertainty around his fitness may encourage Daley to stick with Crichton and Kotoni Staggs in the centres. Mark Nawaqanitawase is also expected to miss out, with Tolu Koula set to retain his wing spot. Liam Martin appears unlikely to return, while one of Isaiya Katoa or Jacob Kiraz is expected to be named in the No.20 jersey.

Queensland is also preparing for changes, with Billy Slater reportedly ready to recall Reece Walsh for Game 2. Walsh, who has endured poor club form with the Broncos, is nonetheless expected to return in place of Ben Hunt on the bench. The Maroons are also set to introduce Dolphins forward Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who is expected to debut after Pat Carrigan was ruled out with injury. Cowboys winger Murray Taulagi is another likely addition to Queensland’s extended bench, replacing Josh Shibasaki. In total, the Maroons are expected to make four changes from the side that lost in Sydney.

Selection drama is also building around Crichton’s availability. The Bulldogs captain is in serious doubt for Game 2 because of a shoulder injury, and New South Wales is understood to be preparing a contingency plan if he cannot prove his fitness. If Crichton is ruled out, McLean is expected to move into the starting team, either at centre or wing, with Newcastle’s Fletcher Sharpe considered as a possible bench replacement. The final squads are likely to be shaped by late fitness tests and form decisions in the lead-up to Origin II.