Hynes axed as new-look Blues squad confirmed

NSW have a new-look spine for their must-win clash against Queensland.

After a devastating loss in the State of Origin opener, head coach Michael Maguire has made a host of changes to his squad in a bid to save the series.

Latrell Mitchell will make his long-awaited return to the Origin arena, with the Rabbitohs star answering the call to replace the suspended Joseph Suaalii. 

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It ends a three-year hiatus from the Blues for the polarising superstar, who missed the last two series due to injury before being overlooked for the 2024 opener.

The 27-year-old, who celebrated his birthday on Sunday, has scored six tries in seven games at Origin level and has been in strong form for South Sydney in recent weeks.

In other news, Dylan Edwards and Mitchell Moses have been called into the starting lineup in the spine, replacing James Tedesco and Nicho Hynes after the 38-10 loss.

Jarome Luai has held his spot in the No.6 jumper and will partner Moses, who missed out on selection for game one due to a foot injury suffered early in the season.

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Connor Watson has been named to make his debut for the Blues on the bench, with Matt Burton missing out on the 17 once again despite being named in the squad.

Cameron Murray – who was in the mix to captain NSW prior to a hip injury – has been recalled to the squad by Maguire and will start at lock in place of Cameron McInnes.

Hudson Young has also been left out of the side from game one, while there is no room for Matt Burton in the squad this time around.

NSW Blues Game II full squad

1. Dylan Edwards 2. Brian To'o 3. Stephen Crichton 4. Latrell Mitchell 5. Zac Lomax 6. Jarome Luai 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Jake Trbojevic (c) 9. Reece Robson 10. Payne Haas 11. Liam Martin 12. Angus Crichton 13. Cameron Murray 14. Connor Watson 15. Isaah Yeo 16. Haumole Olakau'atu 17. Spencer Leniu 18. Mitch Barnett 19. Cameron McInnes 20. Luke Keary