A new Blue
Congratulations to VB Blues hooker Nathan Peats on the birth of his child yesterday. Harlen Reign Peats has entered the world, with mum Jade and bub both doing well. Andrew Fifita’s another one who could be headed to the delivery suite soon – his partner is also very close to giving birth.
Injury update
A number of NSW VB Blues players remain under the close watch of medical staff. Tyson Frizell, James Tedesco and Boyd Cordner, in particular, are being closely monitored, but according to coach Laurie Daley the signs are positive. At this stage all are making significant progress, with Frizell and Tedesco heavily involved in training thus far. Captain Cordner is undergoing tailored training sessions away from the team, with a focus of getting kilometres into his legs. Josh Jackson, in particular, is particular confident all injured stars will play in Origin III.
Opposed session
Last night Laurie Daley’s men took part in an opposed session opposite the Tweeds Head Seagulls. The hit-out was hosted by the Intrust Super Cup club at Piggabeen Oval, just south of the border.
Queensland watch
The Maroons finally confirmed their line-up yesterday – will a couple of curveballs. Ben Hunt will, according to the official team list, start from the bench, with North Queensland playmaker Michael Morgan filling the unfamiliar role of centre, with Melbourne’s Cameron Munster named at five-eighth.
Media watch
Today the NSW VB Blues players have a day off, with no media commitments. The Maroons, though, have Will Chambers, Josh Papalii and Tim Glasby scheduled to face the media. Catch the fallout from all of these press conferences on www.NSWRL.com.au
Sixteens
The NSW Under-16s side, named on Tuesday, assemble tonight at Narrabeen. The team is led by NSWRL Performance Programs Manager Jamie Feeney and coached by Brad Fittler and Danny Buderus. The match, played just before Origin III, will be live streamed on www.NSWRL.com.au. A captain will be named in coming days.
Did you know?
Eminem is the most popular artist amongst the VB Blues when it comes to pump-up songs. Josh Dugan, Jarryd Hayne and Wade Graham, in particular, love listening to the Detroit-raised rapper. Check out the VB Blues' full pre-game playlist here.
