LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Keaon Koloamatangi's chance for a State of Origin recall has dramatically improved after being named to return from an eye socket injury for South Sydney's upcoming round 16 matchup against Melbourne.
Koloamatangi fractured his eye socket during the previous week's loss to Canterbury and was initially expected to miss the clash against the Storm.
However, Souths coach Wayne Bennett confirmed that Koloamatangi did not require surgery, allowing him to be included in the 17-man squad for the game at Accor Stadium.
This news is not only uplifting for Koloamatangi but also for the Rabbitohs, who will also see the return of Latrell Mitchell, the star fullback, who is set to back up after the Blues' two-point loss in Origin Game 2.
Koloamatangi has displayed exceptional performance since moving to the middle this season, and Bennett praised his resilience, stating, "(Koloamatangi) didn't need any surgery and the doctor's quite confident (the injury) won't be a problem to him.
He's confident and he's happy so we'll go ahead and let him play." He added, "You can't question the toughness and the wanting to play for the club as well.
The club's in a good place if players want to play and they've got injuries or getting back a little bit earlier."
Koloamatangi was part of the Blues' extended squad for Origin Game 2 but missed the opportunity due to the injury sustained in the match against the Bulldogs.
He is eager to solidify his place for the series decider scheduled for July 9 in Sydney, particularly as NSW coach Laurie Daley hinted at possible changes following the team's defeat.
Stefano Utoikamanu appears to be the player most at risk of being replaced by Koloamatangi or Wests Tigers' star Terrell May, especially after a lackluster performance in Perth where Utoikamanu managed only four runs for 41 meters and gave away a critical penalty for obstruction, which negated a try from teammate Nathan Cleary.