Surprise candidates join NSW Blues camp ahead of Game 1

There were a group of surprise candidates who joined the NSW Blues camp on the Central Coast as they prepare for their State of Origin clash on Wednesday.

Surprise candidates join NSW Blues camp ahead of Game 1. There were a group of surprise candidates who joined the NSW Blues camp on the Central Coast as they prepare for their State of Origin clash on Wednesday. The Blues invited four NRL stars during their bye weekend to join the squad to help with defensive shapes before the side returns to Sydney. Panthers five-eighth Blaize Talagi , Sharks prop Thomas Hazelton , Eels fullback Joash Papalii and Knights second-rower Mat Croker have all received the call-up from Laurie Daley . All four players have been in quality form to start the 2026 season and were rewarded with the opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the game's best talent. The valuable experience at an Origin camp will no-doubt elevate the four stars at clubland, who will look to push their way into the 20-man squad in years...