LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Laurie Daley is under pressure from NSW fans to reconsider his decisions regarding the Blues squad for Game 2 of the State of Origin series.
This comes amid concerns that Warriors prop Mitch Barnett may be sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during a game against the Rabbitohs.
Barnett, who played a crucial role in NSW's Game 1 victory over Queensland, limped off the field after an awkward fall while tackling, and will undergo scans in Auckland to assess the extent of his injury.
Warriors coach Andrew Webster commented on Barnett's situation, stating, "He's done a knee injury of some description, but we're waiting for scans.
We honestly don't know what it is at the moment.
He could be fine in a couple of weeks - I don't want to be talking like he is not with us any more.
If you do a medial or PCL, you're never (mobile).
There are different grades to different injuries, and until you look under the hood you never know." The potential absence of Barnett puts additional pressure on Daley to decide who will start alongside Payne Haas in the front row and who may fill out the bench rotation.
Stefano Utoikamanu is currently viewed as the likely candidate to step in, having been named as the backup front-rower in Game 1.
However, his recent performance has not stood out, as he played only 27 minutes and recorded 102 meters and 15 tackles against the Titans.
Meanwhile, Souths forward Keaon Koloamatangi has been making a strong case for selection, having played a powerful 80 minutes in his last match, showcasing a try, 39 tackles, and an impressive 189 run meters.
With the series set to continue in Perth, Daley faces a critical coaching decision that could impact NSW's chances of success in the upcoming match, as they prepare for possible adjustments in the lineup if Barnett is confirmed out.