LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
Westpac NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley has announced changes to the squad for Game Two of the Ampol State of Origin series at Optus Stadium on June 18.
The original lineup from the team's victory in the first match retains its core, but the loss of prop Mitch Barnett due to a season-ending ACL injury has led to the only alteration in the 17-man lineup.
Bulldogs prop Max King has been promoted to the starting lineup following his Origin debut in Brisbane, taking over Barnett's position.
King's place on the bench will be filled by Storm frontrower Stefano Utoikamanu, who was named in the extended squad for Game One.
Additionally, with South Sydney's Campbell Graham sidelined for Sunday's match in Canberra due to back spasms, Bulldogs five-eighth Matt Burton has been added as the 18th man.
Keaon Koloamatangi of the Rabbitohs and Lindsay Smith from the Panthers, who has yet to make his debut for NSW, join the extended squad as well.
Manly's Haumole Olakau'atu has withdrawn from consideration due to the upcoming birth of his second child.
This squad adjustment reflects Daley's strategy to secure the Shield in Perth while navigating injuries within the team.