This NSW squad is good enough to win. It’s the starting 13 who are a worry

June 29, 2026 — 11:30am

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The 19-man squad Laurie Daley has picked for Origin III is strong enough to win; it’s the starting 13 who are a worry. Mitchell Moses, Liam Martin, James Tedesco and Reece Robson are among those who have to rediscover their best form on the toughest stage of the year.

Several starters are carrying injuries. Meanwhile, the bench looks awesome, with the game’s best lock (Cameron Murray), best second-rower (Haumole Olakau’atu), best running five-eighth (Ethan Strange) and quickest outside back (Tolu Koula).

There’s more talent on that bench than the High Court. Daley just needs to know how to use them. The fact that they’re on the bench, however, suggests otherwise. If only the Blues can avoid losing the game in the other 50 to 60 minutes when their best players aren’t on the field, they’re a chance.

For a player who spends so long in........

© The Sydney Morning Herald