LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Former NSW Blues advisor Greg Alexander has made a strong recommendation for the 2025 State of Origin series opener, advocating for Newcastle Knights' Jacob Saifiti to be selected as a front-rower.
Alexander's endorsement comes as Laurie Daley, the new Blues coach taking over from Michael Maguire, faces pivotal decisions regarding the team lineup.
As reported by zerotackle.com, while discussions around player selections have focused heavily on outside backs and the halves pairing of Jarome Luai, Mitchell Moses, and Nathan Cleary, attention is also turning to the forward pack.
Currently, Payne Haas, the Brisbane Broncos front-rower, stands out as the only guaranteed selection for the middle forwards.
In contrast to Saifiti, Alexander has suggested that Terrell May, along with Stefano Utoikamanu, should be overlooked for this vital series opener.
As Daley prepares to finalize his team for Game 1, these selections are under intense scrutiny, with several players vying for their chance to don the Blues jersey.