Brad Fittler has named his Origin I squad, and more importantly, his starting 17 and wow has it thrown up some big talking points.

We have players on debut, Dally M winners relegated, stars dropped and a shock decision or two.

Below is the full breakdown for the New South Wales Game I Origin side. Keep an eye out for a full preview and prediction early next week.

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Strength

The halves pairing.

The Blues have been absolutely blessed by being able to name the two form halves in the competition right now. It's absolutely incredible that they just so happen to also be teammates.

Nathan Cleary is leading the Dally M count and is undoubtedly the form player of the competition. Luai is having a magical season and would be leading the count if he wasn't losing so many points to his first receiver.

State of Origin - QLD v NSW: Game 1
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 04: Nathan Cleary of the Blues offloads the ball during game one of the 2020 State of Origin series between the QueenslandMaroons and the New South Wales Blues at the Adelaide Oval on November 04, 2020 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

They have a partnership and understanding at rep level that simply cannot be matched. They've lost one game when paired together in over a year. That rests massively on their combined shoulders.

There's also the added advantage that Cleary will likely have Martin beside him for at least half the game while Luai's combination with Brian To'o is also on show.

Watch the Origin squads broken down on Rugby League Outlaws

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