Unfortunately, it looks as though injuries are going to shape Origin selection just as much, if not more, than form and ability.
Origin contenders continue to be ruled out, or at least are forced to race the clock, after another weekend of injuries.
Below we take a look at the best 13 outside of the 17 players named in last week's likely Origin teams. Players such as Tommy Turbo, who would have been picked for Origin if not for injury, were not considered.
1. Clint Gutherson
The in-form Eels custodian wouldn't look out of place in a sky blue jersey. If Tedesco goes down, I'd argue that Gutherson might be next in line. He's come back from a rough 2018 following a serious injury and looks a world class player. Whether or not he's up to Origin level is up for debate but right now he's the number two fullback south of the Tweed (with Turbo out). Would be a fun inclusion.
2. Daniel Tupou
In a two-way battle with Blake Ferguson for that vacant wing spot, the Roosters winger is playing some amazing footy right now. I wouldn't be shocked if he were to grab a late call up based on form and his combination with Latrell Mitchell. Tall, quick and in supreme form, the former Origin winger looks set for a potential re-call. He certainly adds another weapon for the halves.
3. Jarrod Croker
Croker's Origin stocks are now sky high following the news that James Roberts will likely play reserve grade for the next week or two. Long overdue for Origin selection, the Raiders' captain is a complete option. His defence has improved out of sight and his form has matched that of his side in that it has been outstanding. Probably lacks the speed of other options but that might be being harsh.
4. Jack Bird
Arguably the favourite to replace teammate James Roberts in the NSW centres if his stint in reserve grade doesn't light a fire. Pre-season I couldn't see myself typing those words. Bird hasn't been in red hot form in 2019 but it's hard to star in a side going backwards. His Origin experience could see him jump the line ahead of other options. Dependable but arguably lacks the weapons of the likes of Leilua.
5. Nick Cotric
Cotric is another option at right wing now that Turbo has ruled himself out. A young, fast, aggressive winger with great ability in the air and a habit of scoring tries; he has all the tools to become a 10+ game Origin player. I'd not be shocked to see him called into camp with an eye to the future as Cotric has Origin footy in his future. Ferguson is favourite but if he goes down, Tupou and Cotric are next in line.
6. Cody Walker
One of the form players of the competition. Cody is going to be painfully unlucky to miss Origin selection. He and Luke Keary are too alike and Fittler is likely to go with the Kangaroos number seven in Keary. Another who will likely be called into camp is the red hot, try-scoring number six. His efforts against the Broncos this past Thursday night further pushes his chances.
7. Nathan Cleary
The incumbent NSW number seven, Cleary is behind Luke Keary right now. His form has been patchy but his efforts in all three Origin contests last season will surely see him come close, if not retain his sky blue jumper. Probably needs a big fortnight to push his claim but Fittler has gone on record to say he's leading the race right now. Will be there or there-abouts. Has an Origin series win to his name.
8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard
Former Origin front rower RCG looks a little behind the likes of Vaughn and Klemmer but could yet be called upon for a bench spot. His form for the Panthers saw him dropped to the bench which I ultimately see costing him a position for game one. That said, he could be there come game two or three. A monster in the middle, RCG can turn a game. Possible option further into the series.
9. Cameron McInnes
Although the two-way battle between Cook and McInnes is nowhere near as close as it once was, the very talented Dragons number nine is the most likely to slot in if anything happens. He will tackle himself to exhaustion yet still have the ability to find a play in attack. Not a terrible option, although I think the days of carrying a number nine on the bench at Origin level are closed while Cook is around.
10. Matthew Lodge
Lodge hasn't had a brilliant 2019 and I wouldn't pick him, but he's on the radar, Fittler has admitted as much, and would in the area should injuries occur.
11. Tevita Pangai Jr
In the pre-season, I was convinced the young Bronco would be running out come Origin I. Ultimately his form has not lived up to the incredible hype and I can't see him edging his way into the squad on June 5th. That said, he's another I expect to be called into camp and possibly even the 17 in games two and/or three. TPJ can do it all and is an Origin star in the making but just not yet.
12. Josh Jackson
Jackson has always played well at Origin level and could be called into the side in a pinch. It's more the fact that others around him have jumped ahead rather than any great lack of form on the Dogs veteran's behalf. Played extremely well in 2018 in an otherwise dire Bulldogs side. If the series is 1-1 and an injury occurs, I'd suspect them to go to the experienced Origin vet.
13. Cameron Murray
The Rabbitohs young gun could pip Victor Radley or Tyrone Peachey for a bench spot but I have him JUST missing out on the squad. If it were up to me I'd pick him in a heartbeat. A brilliant player in magical form, Murray seems to make line breaks once or twice every half. He lacks the aggression of Radley and the utility value of Peachey which is why I believe he'll just miss out. Another squad player though. Possibly 18th man even.
