Panthers hooker Apisai Koroisau will wear the No.9 for New South Wales after he was named to start in Game Two of the 2022 Ampol State of Origin series by coach Brad Fittler.
With Damien Cook moved to the bench, Koroisau’s inclusion at hooker will see seven Panthers players named in the starting line-up with Stephen Crichton and Liam Martin also set to start at centre and back row respectively.
Matt Burton will start opposite Crichton in the centres as he makes his Origin debut, replacing Jack Wighton, who was unavailable for selection due to Covid protocols.
Having missed out on the series opener, Manly forward Jake Trbojevic will return to the squad for Game Two and will start at prop alongside Payne Haas. Trbojevic has played 13 games for the Blues but has not featured in Brad Fittler’s side since the opening game of the 2021 series.
Sharks powerhouse Siosifa Talakai will join Roosters forward Angus Crichton and Eels prop Junior Paulo on the bench, with Nicho Hynes named as 18th Man as he was for Game One. Joseph Suaalii, Jordan McLean, Clint Gutherson and Victor Radley will remain in the 22-man squad as reserves.
Trailing 1-0 in the series, the Blues will arrive in Perth on Monday as they begin preparations for Game Two on Sunday night.