LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a move that has set tongues wagging in the Rugby League world, the NSW team for the upcoming Origin decider on July 17 at Suncorp Stadium has seen some new faces added to the mix.
Knights centre Bradman Best and Warriors forward Mich Barnett are the fresh blood injected into the Blues squad by coach Michael Maguire.
After shaking things up with five changes in Game Two down in Melbourne, Maguire has decided to bring Best in to fill the void left by the injured Latrell Mitchell.
On the other hand, Barnett is stepping up to replace the interchange forward Haumole Olakau'atu.
Barnett, who has been hovering on the fringes of the squad for the past two matches, will finally get his chance to shine in his debut Origin appearance.
The young gun was named as 18th man in Origin II at the MCG, but now he's been promoted to the starting lineup for the crucial decider at Suncorp.
Olakau'atu, who usually plays on the right edge as a second-rower for Manly, was asked to play a different role in Origin I and II.
However, with Liam Martin and Angus Crichton capable of lasting the full 80 minutes, Olakau'atu has been replaced by Barnett for the decider.
Meanwhile, Best is no stranger to the Origin arena, having made his debut in Game Three last year.
Despite missing out on the series opener this year, Best has been in scintillating form for the Knights since returning from injury, making him a no-brainer selection for Maguire's side.
Unfortunately, Mitchell's standout performance in NSW's victory over Queensland in Game Two has been overshadowed by a foot injury sustained during South Sydney's clash with Parramatta.
The dynamic centre will be sorely missed in the decider, but the Blues will look to Best and Barnett to step up and deliver the goods in what promises to be a fiercely contested battle at Suncorp Stadium.