NSW Blues Predicted Origin 2 Team

The NSW Blues’ Narrow Victory and the Road to Game 2

The NSW Blues managed to escape a potential disaster in Game 1 of the 2026 State of Origin series. For most of the match, they were the weaker side, struggling with errors, poor defensive decisions, and questionable team selections that ultimately backfired on head coach Laurie Daley. Despite these challenges, they pulled off a last-minute win, which means Kalyn Ponga might be receiving some festive greetings from the team.

However, this victory should not be taken as a sign that the Blues are ready for Game 2. If they repeat the same tactics, lineup, and mindset, they risk a heavy defeat at the hands of Queensland in Melbourne before heading to Brisbane for a potential decider.

Winning in Melbourne is crucial for the Blues, even though the away state has won the past two deciders. Here’s the team that could help them achieve that goal.

Key Players to Watch

James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters)

There’s no need to change anything if Tedesco remains fit. He had an average game, but his track record in the Blues jersey is strong. His selection based on form at the start of the series remains valid, and changing it now would disrupt team dynamics.
Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers)

To’o had what could be his worst Origin performance, particularly in the first half. While he improved in the second half, there’s no need to justify keeping him in the team.
Casey McLean (Penrith Panthers)

Stephen Crichton wasn’t at full fitness and shouldn’t have been picked for the opener. Casey McLean, who came off the bench and looked excellent, should take his place in the starting line-up.
Kotoni Staggs (Brisbane Broncos)

Staggs had solid form leading into the opener and performed well despite the Blues’ struggles. With Latrell Mitchell and Bradman Best sidelined, he should retain his spot.
Tolutau Koula (Manly Sea Eagles)

Koula will return early from a head injury and, even if he hadn’t, there was no reason to drop him. He did well in the opener despite the team’s difficulties.
Ethan Strange (Canberra Raiders)

Strange was a late inclusion at five-eighth and didn’t get much credit for the team’s struggles. He was arguably the best Blues player on the field during the game.
Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers)

Cleary is a straightforward pick for the Blues. He was always going to be in the starting line-up, and with Mitchell Moses injured, his position is secure.
Isaah Yeo (Penrith Panthers)

Yeo started at lock in Game 1, but he needs to play as a prop for better team balance. His physicality and running ability make him a key player at prop.
Reece Robson (Sydney Roosters)

Robson will start at number nine, and Laurie Daley needs to find a replacement for the bench after Blayke Brailey’s injury.
Payne Haas (Brisbane Broncos)

Haas is the league’s best prop and proved it in his recent return. Mitch Barnett struggled in Game 1 and can’t be picked for Game 2.
Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders)

Young was a solid starter in Game 1 and will remain in the team for Game 2.
Haumole Olakau’atu (Manly Sea Eagles)

Olakau’atu rubber-stamped his spot in the lead-up to Game 1 and performed well, despite a cramp later in the game.
Cameron Murray (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Murray came on when the Blues were trailing and helped turn the game around. If he is fit, he should play the full 80 minutes.
Wayde Egan (New Zealand Warriors)

Egan will take over from Blayke Brailey on the bench. A close call between him and Apisai Koroisau, but Daley’s instincts will decide the choice.
Addin Fonua-Blake (Cronulla Sharks)

Fonua-Blake, who was solid in Game 1, will come off the bench and provide more impact, helping to balance the team.
Victor Radley (Sydney Roosters)

I was wrong about Radley heading into Game 1. He performed well and is now a certain starter for Game 2.
Jacob Saifiti (Newcastle Knights)

Saifiti’s spot is secure, even with Payne Haas’ return. It would be unfair to drop him after not getting any game time.
Isaiya Katoa (The Dolphins)

Katoa is a versatile option who can step in at halfback if needed. His role in the team is critical given the absence of Mitchell Moses.
Campbell Graham (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Graham should be the obvious choice on the bench, provided he returns strongly from injury this weekend.