EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns and Brad Fittler Consider Upcoming State of Origin Halfback Challenge

Two of the premier playmakers in the history of the NSW Blues have shared their thoughts on the challenging selection choices facing head coach Laurie Daley.

Following a successful series victory, Daley is stepping in to replace Michael Maguire and will face numerous tough decisions ahead of the opening match.

Arguably, the most significant decision will focus on the No.6 and No.7 jerseys.

Last season, Nathan Cleary was unavailable due to injury and Nicho Hynes was given an opportunity in the position, only to be dropped after Queensland’s overwhelming performance in game one.

Subsequently, Jarome Luai and Mitchell Moses took charge, leading the team to victories in both game two and the decider, forming an effective new partnership.

With Cleary returning to fitness for the Panthers, many consider the four-time premiership-winning half-back to be a definite selection.

In response to how Daley might accommodate three players for the two spots, Andrew Johns provided insights into the potential dynamics between Moses and Cleary, both of whom are influential playmakers for their respective clubs as well as at representative level.

“I understand that they had a discussion last year where Moses indicated he was willing to take a back seat,” he shared on Nine’s Freddy and The Eighth.

“Mitchell is a very clever player who stated he is ready to sidestep his own needs for the benefit of the state, and they will collaborate effectively.

“He had an outstanding series last year, really proving himself.”

Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

While Moses has yet to make an appearance this season for Parramatta, according to Johns, he would require a minimum of two games without any issues to be considered a potential contender.

Although having the two halfbacks share playmaking duties is one option for Daley, former coach Brad Fittler expressed reservations about dropping Luai from the five-eighth position.

“Jarome has performed well and has been a solid player, suggesting that Nathan and Jarome could rekindle their partnership,” he noted.

“The coach would likely be quite enthusiastic about that, as would the players.

“It’s important to consider that Jarome was last year’s five-eighth.

“If Nathan is returning for certain, does that mean moving the halfback to five-eighth? I doubt it.”

Johns concurred, stating that he would opt for Nathan and Jarome as a duo without hesitation if they’re both fit.

The other name in the mix for NSW is Bulldogs star Matt Burton, who is set to come back in round seven after a promising start to the season.

Fittler believes Burton’s kicking abilities and stronger physique could be advantageous in Origin football.

“And then there’s Burton,” he added.

“It’s hard not to admire what they’re achieving at Canterbury. It’s all about kicking into a corner and wearing out the opposite team, and Burton has been executing this exceptionally well.

“He’s another solid option in the mix, given his physicality.”

The series is set to commence on May 28 at Suncorp Stadium.