Brad Fittler blooded 13 debutants last year and is not afraid to do the same in 2019.
He coached the NSW under-16s and 18s before taking the top job, meaning he’s worked with some of the rising stars for years that NRL fans have only just started to get a look at.
Eight days before the season proper, Fittler has isolated five young players who he will be keeping a close eye on that have the potential to play State of Origin.
“I think South Sydney have got some great juniors,” Fittler said in Five with Fittler (see video above).
“Campbell Graham and Cam Murray are a couple of young kids coming through.
“I think at Brisbane, Payne Haas and Tevita Pangai (Junior) just to name a couple were the best kids coming through.
“Zac Lomax is another one who was one of the real shining lights coming through the junior Pathways.
“There are about five to watch out for, for the start of the year.”
While it’s rare for Fittler to worry about what Queensland are doing, he pointed out one of their most promising youngsters while on the theme of South Sydney.
“Corey Allan scored a couple of tries he’s a Queensland junior so they’ve also got some good talent coming through.”
