With a new coach, new approach, a few injuries it is clear that NSW will be running out with a new halves combination in this years State of Origin Series. The much maligned Mitch Pearce going down with a long term injury early in the season may be a blessing in disguise for new Blues Coach Brad Fitler as it took any decision in regards to picking him out of his hands and cooled off the chatter from detractors that Nathan Cleary was too young and inexperienced to play in the pivotal number 7 jersey. Cleary himself nearly had his dreams shattered through injury early in the season also but his comeback game last week was very polished and with one more game before the team is picked to be played coach Fitler will feel far more comfortable with his match fitness if he decides to pick him.
Halves partner at Club side Penrith James Maloney was considered a certainty to play in the Blues number 6 only a few weeks ago but questions have started to linger in regards to his defensive game. Fitler is rumoured to be weary of the amount of tackles Maloney has missed this season as well as past Origin games, Maloney also has not recorded a series victory whilst part of the Blues set up which is caused for concern. The two things that might save him and allow him another crack it is the combination he has at club level along with the fact that there is very few other options at this stage.
The only other real option for the Blues in the halves is Luke Brookes of the West Tigers or Luke Keary of the Roosters, Brookes started the season along with his team well but has tapered in recent times, a combination of him and Cleary is not a great match and it would be hard to see him winning the jersey over Cleary as the 7. I think the combo will be Cleary and Maloney for Game 1, time will tell if this is the right option, i see Cleary as the Blues long term 7 but at 6 i think Maloneys days are numbered and a game 1 loss may see him have played his last game for NSW.