LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Surprise selection sparks debate over Origin call // Anasta's bold NSW team selection divides opinion
Braith Anasta has stirred the pot with his "controversial" choices for the NSW State of Origin team, with some calling them a real curveball.
NRL 360 host Braith Anasta has laid out what he believes to be the winning lineup for Game 1, igniting a fiery discussion in the rugby league community.
Remaining faithful to the current captain, James Tedesco, Anasta has paired Nicho Hynes at five-eighth and Mitchell Moses at halfback.
Adding a touch of excitement, the bench comprises of four rookies including Sharks workhorse Cameron McInnes, Manly juggernaut Haumaole Olakau'atu, Roosters enforcer Spencer Leniu, and as a dark horse pick, Warriors bruiser Mitch Barnett.
While the selection of these fresh faces may have raised some eyebrows, it was Anasta's decision to place Joseph Suaali'i on the wing that really got tongues wagging among the NRL 360 team.
Three-time premiership winner Brian To'o holds his spot on one side, while Suaali'i, a rising star, takes the other.
As debates rage and opinions clash over Anasta's bold moves, one thing is for certain - this year's State of Origin promises to be a thrilling battle on the field, with unexpected tactics and new blood injecting some fresh energy into the game.