LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NSW coach Laurie Daley has made a compelling argument for selecting Melbourne Storm star Ryan Papenhuyzen for a State of Origin debut this year.
Following an outstanding performance in Melbourne's 64-0 victory over the Tigers-where Papenhuyzen scored four tries and kicked 10 goals, setting a new NRL-era club record of 36 points-his chances for selection have significantly improved.
Daley noted that both Papenhuyzen and Blues hopeful James Tedesco have emerged as top fullbacks in the NRL for 2025.
Incumbent NSW fullback Dylan Edwards, who played a pivotal role in securing the Origin shield last year, would likely compete with Tedesco for the starting position.
However, Daley has mentioned the possibility of Papenhuyzen serving as a bench utility, a role previously filled by Roosters' Connor Watson, suggesting that either Watson or starting hooker Reece Robson could be sidelined if Papenhuyzen is chosen.
Daley remarked that utilizing Papenhuyzen in the utility role has already been "spoken about" among the coaching staff, highlighting his potential to provide a significant "X-factor" for the Blues, particularly against fatigued defenders later in the match.
He elaborated, "Yes.
Yeah he is someone who could play that role very well I think." Daley suggested Papenhuyzen could be used as cover for an injury to an outside back or deployed in the middle at lock, emphasizing that "injecting him...
could...
get him into the game as a lock and inject some speed in and outside the ruck."
Papenhuyzen brings relevant experience to the utility position, having played it for Craig Bellamy at the Storm.
He last came off the bench for Melbourne at the end of the 2023 season, reinforcing his capacity to transition into a dynamic role for the Blues.