Panthers duo Brian To o and Isaah Yeo have broken into the second Australian merit team chosen on form by Jamie Soward, Brett Kimmorley and Steve Renouf.
Every month this season, for a series presented by Gallagher, the experts will each select a 17-man Kangaroos squad with a composite team then assembled based on their most popular picks.
Incumbency and career achievements weren t part of the selection criteria, so the trio s teams aren t necessarily a reflection of who they believe should make Australia s next official side.
While many players retained their spot from the first merit team selected at the start of April, there were a few key additions.
NSW and Queensland officials are awaiting details around the status of the 18th man in State of Origin before finalising preparations for their team camps ahead of the series opener at the MCG on June 9.
The squads for Origin I will be named on May 31 and this year s series is the first in which the Blues and Maroons will carry an 18th man after the ARLC recently approved teams using an extra reserve if they have a players ruled out by foul play or lose three to HIAs in a game.
However, it is yet to be decided whether each state s nominated 18th man can remain in camp with the for the duration leading up to Origin or return to his club for their match on the weekend.
Thursday 29 April, GIO Stadium, 7:50pm
Raiders: Come into the game off a five-day turnaround after a loss to Cowboys on Saturday night. Joseph Tapine and Isosia Soliola are both options to come back into 17 after both were dropped last week. Jarrod Croker s position in the team could come into question with his form down but he also appeared to re-injure the shoulder he had off season surgery on and could be in some doubt. Bailey Simonsson should return from concussion on the right wing which could see Sebastian Kris dropping to the bench.
Rabbitohs: Tevita Tatola is in doubt after he failing game day HIA. With the six-day turnaround he will need to progress through NRL HIA protocols and get doctor clearance to play. Patrick Mago would come into the 17 if Tatola is ruled out with Jai Arrow likely starting. Jaxson Paulo suffered a shoulder injury in first half against the Titans and was able to play on but could be in some doubt. Cody Walker will continue at fullback with Benji Mars
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