LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Former Rugby League greats have lashed out at the puzzling decision to leave Api Koroisau out of the NSW Blues State of Origin squad, with many calling it a "strange" omission.
With injuries plaguing the team, new coach Michael Maguire has shaken things up with a fresh squad announcement on Sunday night.
"Nicho Hynes is on the mend from a calf injury and could potentially join forces with Jarome Luai in the halves for Game 1 next week," Maguire stated, showing confidence in the recovery of his players.
The squad features six debutants, including Dylan Edwards, Joseph Sua'ali'i, Zac Lomax, Cameron McInnes, Spencer Leniu, and Haumole Olakau'atu.
The shake-up also sees James Tedesco replaced by Edwards as fullback and Jake Trbojevic stepping up as team captain.
Notably, there was no spot for Latrell Mitchell in the backline, adding to the surprises in the selection.
The decision has left many scratching their heads, with some suggesting that the omission of Koroisau could come back to haunt the Blues in the fiercely competitive Origin series.
Time will tell if Maguire's bold choices pay off, or if the absence of certain players will leave the team feeling like they have "eyes painted on" in crucial moments.