With the 2025 State of Origin series locked at one apiece and everything on the line in Wednesday’s decider, the NSW Blues have provided a critical update on two of their most influential stars — front-row powerhouse Payne Haas and barnstorming winger Brian To’o.
As reported by CODE Sports, coach Laurie Daley remained positive both players will take the field. “Brian trained all session,” Daley confirmed. “Payne did a little bit, but we always knew going into the game that Payne would be on restrictive duties. He’ll be ready for game night.”
That confidence will be reassuring to Blues fans — both Haas and To’o are absolutely vital to New South Wales' hopes of winning the series.
Haas has battled ongoing issues throughout the season and is reportedly undergoing regular pain-relieving injections just to stay on the field.
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For a player who routinely leads the forward pack in runs and metres though, it remains a concern — simply taking the field is only part of the equation.
The Blues will need him playing big minutes and delivering his usual impact if they’re to get over the line.
To’o, meanwhile, has been dealing with a knee complaint that saw him restricted earlier in camp, but he reportedly got through a full training session this week.
Earlier in camp it looked a genuine 50/50 call as to whether To'o be able to line up in the decider, but signs now point to the Panthers flyer taking his place on the left wing.
The Blues have named Jacob Kiraz as 18th man, just in case To’o fails to pull up fit late in preparation. But barring any last-minute unexpected setbacks, the Blues will lineup as per program.
For Queensland, the moment of elation after their Game II triumph has been short-lived.
The last thing the Maroons want to see in front of a packed Accor Stadium in Sydney is Haas and To’o charging into the defence and chewing up metres to the cheers of a parochial crowd.
The stage is set. The pressure is immense. And with both sides now looking to be at full strength, another classic Origin chapter is about to be written.