Andrew Fifita is one step closer to returning to the State of Origin arena after being named in NSW’s 19-man squad for the opening game this morning.
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The selection comes on the back of Fifita’s stellar run of form for the Cronulla Sharks.
The prop is notching up 29.5 tackles a game and is averaging just under 14 hit ups per match in 2016.
Those statistics added with his ability to offload at will has helped Cronulla to the top of the NRL premiership ladder.
The Griffith Waratah Tiger junior was chosen alongside fellow Sharks Paul Gallen and James Maloney.
Fifita is still not certain to play with a final team selection to be made closer to the opening game of the series.
Captain Gallen, James Tamou, Aaron Woods, David Klemmer, Josh Jackson, Tyson Frizell look to be Fifita’s opponents for the front row and bench positions.
The squad selection caps off a successful period for the Fifita twins after David represented Tonga from the bench in the Pacific Test against Samoa earlier this month.
The front rower last played State of Origin in the first game of last year’s series.
NSW squad for Origin one: Greg Bird (Titans), Boyd Cordner (Roosters), Josh Dugan (Dragons), Robbie Farah (Tigers), Blake Ferguson (Roosters), Andrew Fifita (Sharks), Tyson Frizell (Dragons), Paul Gallen (Sharks), Josh Jackson (Bulldogs), Michael Jennings (Eels), David Klemmer (Bulldogs), James Maloney (Sharks), Josh Mansour (Panthers), Josh Morris (Bulldogs), Matt Moylan (Panthers), Adam Reynolds (Rabbitohs), James Tamou (Cowboys), Dylan Walker (Sea Eagles), Aaron Woods (Tigers). Development player: Bryce Cartwright (Panthers)
