Joseph Suaalii has been recalled into the NSW Blues squad after Luke Keary was withdrawn due to injury.
Suaalii wasn’t available for game two after his suspension for a dangerous tackle on Reece Walsh in Origin I.
The Blues had to apply for special dispensation from the NRL to include Suaalii in the squad.
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The Roosters have the bye this weekend and did not require either Keary or Suaalii.
Keary’s injury is reportedly related to pubic bone stress with 9News Sydney reporter Danny Weidler writing on X, formerly known as Twitter that, “I saw him with his family and he didn’t appear in too much discomfort”.
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Suaalii’s inclusion in the Blues squad provides more cover for Bradman Best.
Joseph Suaalii warms up during a New South Wales Blues State of Origin Training Session at NSWRL Centre of Excellence on June 03, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images) Getty
Matt Burton is currently 18th man and could replace Best if he doesn’t recover from a hamstring injury.
Despite concern around Best, Blues head of performance Frank Ponissi said, “He is coming along really well” and expects him to train fully with the team on Saturday.