LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
New South Wales Blues head coach Laurie Daley has confirmed that Payne Haas is fit to play in Game 1 of the 2025 State of Origin series.
Haas, who has been dealing with a quad injury during the camp, performed well in the Blues' captains run on Tuesday morning, allowing him to be declared fit.
He will start in the front row alongside Mitchell Barnett, with Spencer Leniu and Max King on the bench.
Stefano Utoikamanu, who has been on standby, will not be needed unless an unexpected situation arises.
In contrast, Stephen Crichton's position remains uncertain.
Although he had recovered from a groin concern and trained effectively, he hobbled off the field on Monday at Ballymore while applying ice to his leg.
Daley assured that Crichton does not have a strain and mentioned that a decision regarding his spot will be made by Wednesday morning.