NSW State of Origin side named: Josh Dugan to make return

Josh Dugan in action for the Dragons against the Cowboys on Friday night. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

ST GEORGE Illawarra fullback Josh Dugan has completed a remarkable return to rugby league with selection in the NSW side for the second State of Origin game.

Dugan, who was axed by Canberra earlier this year for his off-field behaviour, was one of two changes to the side, which won the opening game at ANZ Stadium.

Wests Tigers prop Aaron Woods will make his debut in the front row in place of the suspended James Tamou, who was given a two-match suspension by the NRL after being arrested for drink driving.

Dugan, however, is the most intriguing selection. The Dragons custodian has played for NSW before and was believed to be coach Laurie Daley's favoured fullback before his early-season dramas.

Jarryd Hayne eventually got that chance in Origin I but a hamstring injury has ruled him out of Origin II.

"Jarryd rang me and informed me his hammy was no good and he wouldn't be right," Daley said.

"We decided to make the decision early to rule him out and bring in Josh. He is a wonderful player, Duges. I have coached him a couple of times, he is a good kid, he is a very talented kid.

"Obviously had some issues at the start of the year but his last five games for the Dragons have been outstanding. If you look at his numbers, they're probably better than any other fullback in the game.

"That's what's so good about our game. we give people the opportunity to redeem themselves. Duges has always been identified as a guy who can play at this level and now he gets this game."

The Blues will head to Brisbane hoping to become the first NSW side since 2005 to win the series with victory at Suncorp Stadium.

While injury cost Hayne, Daley will take a chance on hooker Robbie Farah (fractured cheekbone and broken nose) and interchange forward Anthony Watmough (corked thigh).

"The other guys should be okay, hence we haven't added other names to the squad," Daley said.

"May not train early in the week but by midweek should be ready to go."

As for Woods, Daley said his cause had been helped by his form and an ongoing hand injury to Penrith prop Tim Grant.

"The injury to Tim Grant probably came at the wrong time for Tim - broken hand," Daley said.

"Aaron has been playing really well. He's a young guy but we're sure he will be able to handle the atmosphere up there at (Suncorp Stadium)."

Squad: Josh Dugan, Brett Morris, Michael Jennings, Josh Morris, Blake Ferguson, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Paul Gallen (capt), Robbie Farah, Aaron Woods, Ryan Hoffman, Luke Lewis, Greg Bird. Bench: Andrew Fifita, Trent Merrin, Josh Reynolds, Anthony Watmough.

The Australian