Fittler makes enormous call as NSW Blues’ 17 for Game 2 confirmed

NSW Blues head coach Brad Fittler has locked in his starting 17 for Game 2 of the State of Origin series, revealing an enormous change, with Damien Cook to come from the bench.

It was reported last night that in an attempt put a fork in Queensland's two-pronged dummy half attack of Ben Hunt and Harry Grant, Koroisau would join the bench to work in tandem with Damien Cook.

Fittler has swung a surprise with his 17 however, revealing that the in-form Penrith rake Koroisau will wear the number nine, with Cook to come from the bench.

He has also confirmed the previously reported centre combination of Matt Burton and Stephen Crichton, with Burton to make his Origin debut.

Cameron Murray also returns to the starting team after Tariq Sims was axed alongside six other players - Jack Wighton (covid), Kotoni Staggs, Ryan Matterson, Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Tyson Frizell and Jacob Saifiti - from the 22-man squad to travel to Perth.

Cook is joined on an almost completely new-look bench by Angus Crichton and Siosifa Talakai, while Junior Paulo will again come from the bench, with Jake Trbojevic to start this time.

The Blues have then listed Jordan McLean, Clint Gutherson and Victor Radley amongst their reserves, to be joined by Nicho Hynes and Joseph Suaalii, who were there for Game 1.

The changes have been met with widespread surprise, with the decision surrounding Cook and Koroisau, as well as a bench featuring Talakai, likely to draw more questions.

The Blues and Maroons will clash in Game 2 of the series in Perth on Sunday evening.