We are now just weeks away from Origin One and NSW eligible players are dropping like flies.
Latrell Mitchell has long been ruled out while Ryan Papenhuyzen's recent injury has robbed him of a near certain Origin debut.
Origin mainstay Cameron Murray joins the aforementioned stars in the casualty ward following a serious injury. He was certain to run out for the Blues on June 8th.
Murray's loss will be someone else's game, with both Origin second row spots up for grabs.
Looking at the list of names there are plenty of options but I certainly wouldn't want to be in Brad Fittler's shoes come selection.
Below are the players most likely to run out to represent New South Wales in the Series opener in Sydney.
5. Haumole Olakau'atu
If the Blues want to stray from the tried and tested options that they've run out in the past, then surely the Sea Eagles youngster is the go.
Straight up I want to see Olakau'atu picked for Origin One. I would much rather see him run out over teammate Jake Trbojevic. He offers so much more right now.
Origin One, in front of 80,000 home fans, is the perfect opportunity to blood the firebrand.
In his eight games he has five tries, four line-breaks and tackles at 93%.
I'd be playing him from the bench, but if Fittler wants to send out a young player to tear in, then Olakau'atu is the only option.
As a Queensland second-rower I would not want to see the 111kg 23-year-old running at me with every inch of his being.
Can you imagine Olakau'atu with the adrenalin of 80,000 in blue cheering his every move?
I still think blooding a debutant from the bench is the go, but part of me wants to see the youngster unleashed over the more experienced options listed.
