Robson's hamstring gives NSW fresh Origin concern
NSW have been given an unwanted headache before State of Origin II, with hooker Reece Robson in doubt to play for North Queensland again before selection.
Robson backed up from the Blues' series-opening win to run out for the Cowboys last week against Wests Tigers, but left the field early with hamstring tightness.
The dummy-half has been named to face Melbourne on Friday night, but coach Todd Payten said Robson was far from certain to play.
"He's in some doubt. He's got to get the body moving," Payten said.
"We'll just be guided by the medical team and make a call come captain's run. But he's got a couple of boxes to tick."
Blues officials will name their squad for Origin II after this weekend, with the final game on the public holiday Monday between Canterbury and Parramatta.
Robson would be expected to be named in the NSW squad regardless of whether he plays this weekend, but it would leave his fitness clouded for Origin II in Perth.
Apisai Koroisau would remain the most likely back-up option for the Blues, after losing his spot to Robson in the 2023 series.
Cronulla hooker Blayke Brailey would be another option, while NSW already have Sydney Roosters No.9 Connor Watson in their side as a bench utility.
NSW selectors already have one decision to make ahead of game two, with prop Mitchell Barnett ruled out for the season with an ACL rupture.
Melbourne's Stefano Utoikamanu is favoured to replace him, while South Sydney workhorse Keaon Koloamatangi is making a strong case.
The Cowboys have also ruled Murray Taulagi out of Friday's clash because of the calf injury that cost him a spot in the Maroons side for Origin I.
It means the six-time Maroons winger will not play again before teams are selected for Origin II, in a major hit to his selection chances.
Fellow Cowboys star Jason Taumalolo is also out of the Storm clash, after failing to recover in time from a calf injury.
He and Taulagi are expected to be fit to face the Dolphins next week.
"They just didn't come up to the mark. We need them to get a full week of training under their belt to play at NRL level," Payten said.
"They both weren't there this week given it was a six-day turn off the back of last week's game.
"Next week is a longer turn-around and we expect them on the pitch on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and be right to play against the Dolphins."
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