Luai Returns to Blues as Moses Suffers Origin Setback

NSW Halves Shuffle Ahead of Perth Clash

A late injury to key playmaker Mitchell Moses has thrown the New South Wales State of Origin camp into disarray, paving the way for Jarome Luai to rejoin Nathan Cleary in the halves for Wednesday’s crucial Game Two in Perth. The Blues now aim to secure consecutive series victories.

Injury Forces Dramatic Change

Moses sustained a calf injury during a training session against The Entrance on Thursday and will not travel to Western Australia. He will undergo scans to assess the severity of the damage. Luai, who partnered Cleary to four NRL premierships at Penrith, was immediately called into the squad.

The pair last faced off against each other just last Sunday, with Cleary’s Panthers defeating Luai’s Wests Tigers 18-14. This reunion marks a return to a successful combination for the Blues, who triumphed 2-1 in the 2024 series with Luai playing a key role.

Depth Tested as Injuries Mount

While Matt Burton is already in the squad as 18th man, the coaching staff believe his versatility—covering multiple positions—makes him more valuable in that role. Jacob Kiraz has joined the Blues camp, while Brian To’o is managing a hamstring issue, though the team expects him to be fit for Wednesday.

The Blues’ squad structure differs from the NRL, allowing for greater flexibility in calling up players due to injury. Unlike the NRL’s 22-man squads announced on Tuesdays, NSW and Queensland name only 20, providing more leeway for late changes. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, sports injuries account for approximately 20% of all injury-related hospital admissions in the 15-24 age group, highlighting the physical demands of elite athletics. ABS Injury Statistics

Queensland Also Adjusts Lineup

Across the contest, Queensland are also making changes. Pat Carrigan is expected to come off the interchange, with Trent Loiero starting in his place. Kurt Capewell returns to the starting side, and Jeremiah Nanai moves to the bench. Kurt Mann is set to make his Queensland debut.

NRL Round 15 Impacted by Injuries

Injuries are also impacting Round 15 of the NRL. Newcastle Knights fullback Fletcher Sharpe has been ruled out with a calf injury, with Fletcher Hunt taking his place. Roosters halfback Sam Walker’s return from an ACL tear has been delayed due to a thumb injury sustained in training.

The Cowboys will welcome back Murray Taulagi and Jason Taumalolo from calf injuries, while the Rabbitohs will see Jayden Sullivan and Jamie Humphreys link up in the halves following Cody Walker’s groin injury. The Bulldogs will see Lachlan Galvin start for the first time, with Jacob Kiraz shifting to the centres.

The Blues will be hoping for a strong performance in Perth as they aim to maintain their winning momentum in the State of Origin series. The team is confident that To’o will be fit to play, and the return of Luai provides a familiar partnership alongside Cleary.