Matters of state: Which 2022 debutants return for NSW?

Brad Fittler blooded six debutants for NSW during the Ampol State of Origin series in 2022 but there is a real possibility that none of them will be there for Game One less than 12 months later. 

The expected returns of Latrell Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic to the Blues set-up means there’s a plethora of players available for selection that provide versatility in all spots with last year's rookies in the firing line. 

After going down in the opening game last year and then in the decider, Fittler's side need to get off to a winning start if it means the Blues can at the very least bring a deciding game back to NSW on July 12 if required. 

Fittler went with three debutants in Origin I last year - Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs, Eels forward Ryan Matterson and Panthers star Stephen Crichton off the bench. 

Staggs and Matterson were among four dropped following the 16-10 defeat with Staggs moving down the pecking order in the past 12 months with the calibre of players returning to the mix. 

Matterson could be in line for a recall with his ability to play on the edge or in the middle, along with injuries to Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Jake Trbojevic meaning Fittler won't have the services of either men for at least the first game.

Crichton remained in the Origin side for all three matches, going from the bench to the right centre spot following the injury to season-ending injury to Trbojevic last season.

The two-time premiership winner not only has to contest with Trbojevic but the form of Rabbitohs centre Campbell Graham, which has been so impressive that many even have him ahead of both on the right edge at this stage. 

Fittler's call on the trio is a luxury but you get the feeling with experience coming into it for the series opener that Trbojevic might have his nose in front given his performances previously and despite being quiet to start the year. 

Bulldogs star Matt Burton never held back in his maiden Origin series - playing in the final two games at left centre - but with the return of Latrell Mitchell his spot in the starting side is heavily under threat.

Mitchell’s previous performances at the Origin level and for the Rabbitohs will have him in front of Burton but that’s not to say the 23-year-old wouldn’t be a perfect bench utility if required.

While the five-eighth battle between Jarome Luai and Nicho Hynes will be the talking point in the lead-up to Origin I, Burton’s versatility and more importantly his ability with the boot could be a big point of difference for the Blues off the bench.