The absence of Greg Inglis and Matt Scott and doubts over Johnathan Thurston’s availability for the opening match of the 2017 State of Origin series present NSW with a rare chance.
Collectively, the Queensland trio have missed just two of the last 22 Origin matches in a period stretching back to when Scott returned to the side permanently for game three of the 2009 series.
Everyone knows the Blues have tasted series success only once in 2014 since Scott, Thurston and Inglis have been together, and won just eight of those 22 fixtures.
Take one out and the team might be able to get by.
Take two out and the alarm bells are ringing and the Blues are entitled to be favourites.
If all three are out, it is hard to see the Maroons winning.
The opening match of the 2017 State of Origin series will be held on the 31st of this month.
Source: Foxsports
