Robbie Farah, former hooker for the NSW Blues, has hailed Latrell Mitchell as the "form player of the comp" this year.
He firmly supports Mitchell's inclusion for Game 1 of the State of Origin series.
With exceptional talent depth in the outside back positions, there are numerous options ready to step up for NSW in the Origin series.
Among those challenging Mitchell in the centre positions are Casey McLean, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Stephen Crichton, and Bradman Best.
Nevertheless, Farah believes that the current centre, Mitchell, will reclaim his representative spot, as he is enjoying a career-best season with South Sydney in 2026.
Despite recently dealing with a lower back issue and being sidelined during South Sydney's significant win against the Sharks on Saturday, Mitchell is set to return for Magic Round.
This upcoming game will provide him with a crucial opportunity to impress before Laurie Daley announces the team.
"I think the fact hopefully he can get back this week and get some game time before the team gets picked is an enormous boost for us," said Farah.
As conversations swirl around the potential makeup of the Blues squad, the depth across the field is formidable.
This impressive talent pool means some prominent players may find themselves missing out in this prestigious arena.