Three players have been ruled out of the remainder of the State of Origin series due to injury.
New South Wales have been dealt a huge blow with the loss of captain Boyd Cordner, who has withdrawn from the squad after suffering a head knock in Game I.
He passed a HIA test and returned to the field, but has chosen not to take part in the rest of the series on medical advice.
“As hard as it was, it is the right call based on the fact I have had a few knocks this year,” he said in a statement. “The decision is more precautionary than anything. It has been a big year and now I can just rest up and relax with a good break coming up.”
Blues back rower Cameron Murray will also not take part in Games II or III, after a hamstring problem forced him from the field in the 23rd minute of Game I.
Head coach Brad Fittler confirmed his absence but said the injury isn’t serious.
For Queensland, rookie fullback AJ Brimson is also out after injuring his left foot.
On the problem, Maroons team doctor Matt Hislop said: “Scans confirmed a lisfranc ligament injury which will rule AJ out of the rest of the series.”
Prop Christian Welch will also miss Game II through concussion but will be in contention for Game III.
