Origin selection bombshells for Blues and Maroons as Tedesco and Fifita overlooked for Game I

NSW State of Origin coach Michael Maguire has ushered in a new age ahead of his debut series after dropping incumbent fullback and captain James Tedesco from his Game I squad.

Tedesco had led NSW since 2020 but following an indifferent series in 2023, Maguire opted for Penrith Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards to make his long-awaited debut in the Origin arena.

SEN’s and State of Origin games record holder Cameron Smith admitted that he was surprised by Tedesco’s axing.

“I was shocked by it given there hadn't been a whole lot of talk about it,” Smith told SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“He’s the current Kangaroos skipper but now with Dylan Edwards in the form that he’s in, there’s a huge push for him.

“Edwards performs every week (but) it’s the decision that jumps out the most to me.

“Maguire would’ve definitely had a conversation with James because he has been the skipper for the past few years.

“This will be a very hard working (NSW) side. It won’t be about the flashy plays and it will be about trying to grind out 80 minutes of football.

Queensland have made only the one major change with Gold Coast Titans forward David Fifita not selected by Maroons coach Billy Slater in the 20-man squad for Game I.

Fifita was one of Queensland’s best in all three games in 2023 but has been overlooked for Parramatta forward J’Maine Hopgood and Dragons second rower Jayden Su’A.

“I’m not too sure what Billy and the selectors were thinking there,” Smith added.

“Maybe they think the other guys that are playing in his position are going better.

“Hopgood is playing in a side that’s struggling at the moment but his performances individually are incredible.

“It’s a big shock (but) Billy has said that every player, no matter what you are doing at club land, has to earn it.

“You have to earn the right to wear that Queensland jersey.”

The Blues will host the Maroons in Game I at Accor Stadium on June 5.