Payne Haas among first players ‘named for NSW’ with Panthers gun to get call-up and Rooster snubbed

Payne Haas was the first player Blues coach Brad Fittler called on Sunday before NSW named its State of Origin team, with Penrith centre Stephen Crichton reportedly set to debut and Roosters young gun Joseph Suaalii unlucky to miss out.

The Broncos big man has been under fire recently after requesting an immediate release from the Broncos, throwing his chances of playing against Queensland into doubt as Fittler is known for not wanting contract dramas to effect his team. 

However, Fittler said Haas is a key player for the Blues side and that the release controversy won’t affect his spot in the side.

Payne Haas takes the ball up for the Broncos in their 35-24 comeback win over the Titans on Friday night

‘He was my first phone call. He means a lot to us, he’s a young kid and things expediated there really quickly,’ Fittler told Nine’s Sports Sunday show. 

‘I’ve spoken to all parties and everyone’s comfortable, especially Payne.

‘His shoulder was the biggest problem and he says his AC joint is doing well and will be able to get through 10 days of training.’

Fittler will reportedly name Stephen Crichton to partner Kotoni Staggs in the centres, with a few bolters expected to receive a call-up.

Stephen Crichton contests for the ball in the Panthers 22-0 win over the Cowboys on Friday night. He is set to debut for the Blues and partner Kotoni Staggs in the centres

Roosters high flyer Joseph Suaalii looked set to be included in the 22-man squad until he suffered a concussion against Cronulla

Roosters flyer Joseph Suaalii has been tossed around in the 22-man squad discussions so the young star can experience the Origin system, but his selection could be delayed until game two as the winger copped a category one concussion against the Sharks on Saturday night.

His teammate Daniel Tupou will return to the Blues side with his height and ability under the high ball sought after as Xavier Coates and Selwyn Cobbo look set to be selected on the wing for the Maroons, Channel Nine reported. 

Tupou’s impending selection means Josh Addo-Carr could find himself out of the Blues side after a four-year tenure on the flank. 

Nine-game NSW second-rower Angus Crichton is believed to be getting cut from the squad, while Liam Martin will reportedly be dropped from the 17.

Brad Fittler will name his squad for game one of Origin squad on Sunday night

Jack Trbojevic will reportedly join his brother Tom stands, as he’s set to be dropped from the squad to make way for Jacob Saifiti. 

Fittler will name his squad after the Raiders vs Eels game on Sunday afternoon.