Former Blues captain James Tedesco will make a remarkable return to the Origin arena after Dylan Edwards was ruled out by NSW four days out from kick-off.
The ARLC granted approval for Tedesco to come from outside the 20 selected players announced on Monday, following Edwards' training ground injury, and he joined the squad in Sydney on Sunday.
State of Origin Late Mail: Game One
New South Wales v Queensland, Wednesday at Accor Stadium
New South Wales: James Tedesco will make his 23rd appearance for the Blues after being a late call up to replace Dylan Edwards, who was ruled out with a quad injury. The injury to Edwards sees Tedesco, who was initially overlooked for the series opener, return to the No.1 jumper. Nicho Hynes will make his first Origin start at halfback after overcoming a calf complaint. Matt Burton is the replacement player.
Queensland: Maroons hooker Harry Grant is good to go after shaking off illness earlier in camp and will come off the bench, with Ben Hunt starting at dummy-half. Selwyn Cobbo has spent time at centre and wing as he prepares for a super-sub role off the bench for Billy Slater's side. J'maine Hopgood will make his Origin debut via the interchange. Felise Kaufusi is the replacement player.
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