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Star NSW Blues centre Stephen Crichton is expected to take the field for Wednesday night’s State of Origin opener at Suncorp Stadium, despite earlier concerns over a leg injury.
The 24-year-old was seen limping off during training on Monday, prompting head coach Laurie Daley to admit uncertainty about his fitness. However, updates from Bulldogs football boss Phil Gould indicate a positive turn, with the NSW medical staff confident Crichton will be ready.
“Blues say Stephen Crichton expected to play in Origin I at Suncorp tomorrow night,” Gould shared via X on Tuesday evening, confirming no changes to the team lineup before the 8 pm deadline.
A brief video had circulated earlier showing Crichton hobbling off the field, raising concerns for Blues fans. As Canterbury captain, Crichton has been one of the standout performers in the NRL this season, and his inclusion is crucial for the team’s performance.
If Crichton had been unable to play, Campbell Graham was likely to slot into the starting team, with Matt Burton poised as the 18th man. In other positive news, Payne Haas has been declared fit and ready to play by coach Daley after recovering from his own injury scare.
