NSW skipper endorses Keary amid injury crisis
Luke Keary's case to don the No.7 jersey for New South Wales has been backed by head coach Trent Robinson, with Penrith star Nathan Cleary ruled out of the 2024 State of Origin series with a hamstring injury.
Keary has made only one appearance for the Blues, but is in strong form for the Chooks and was instrumental in the side's win over the Warriors in round 10.
The 32-year-old's chances of selection increased after the news that Cleary would no longer be available for selection after being ruled out for eight weeks.
Despite announcing that this season will be his last year in the NRL, Keary has earnt praise from Blues skipper and Roosters teammate James Tedesco, who revealed he believes the halfback has what it takes to play in the Origin arena.
"He's the most consistent half and he's been playing really well all year," Tedesco said during the post-match press conference on Sunday.
"Who knows, there is obviously a lot going on there in the halves with injuries and [questions about if] people available. I'm sure Keary would fit in."
Robinson said he will do everything he can to be able to help his players be recognised for selection, revealing he believes the Origin arena will not only be a great honour for his players but also assist in developing the Roosters game.
Andrew Johns has called for Luke Keary to be axed from the New South Wales side for game two.
"This is the time where I start getting asked a lot of questions about Origin," he said.
"I think our best chance at getting players in a position where they might get selected is to keep driving home. What we saw today was really confident combinations work hard.
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"If you're going to play with confidence, you need to have the confidence to win the moment. A bit more hardness, which is in the Origin arena, would assist our game.We need to continue on, looking forward to next week.
"If [the Roosters players] keep putting their best foot forward Madge [Michael Maguire] will start looking up and so will Billy [Slater]."
Maguire has yet to lead the NSW team into a game but his options are diminishing by the week as a number of likely rep players succumbing to injury.
Mitchell Moses and James Tedesco of the Blues celebrate winning game three of the State of Origin series.
Manly's Tom Trbojevic and South Sydney's Cameron Murray have also been ruled out, while Parramatta's Michell Moses hasn't featured since round three.
Nicho Hynes was scratched from the Sharks side on Saturday due to a minor calf strain but it is yet to be confirmed if he will return in time to play for Cronulla in Magic Round.
Blues hopefuls Joseph Suaalii and Angus Crichton were both placed on report against the Warriors, but aren't expected to be sidelined for an extended period.
Maroons coach Billy Slater also faces a small casualty ward ahead of Origin selection, with Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Tom Gilbert and Kalyn Ponga all ruled out of the 2024 series.
The series kicks off on June 5 at Accor Stadium.