Tariq Sims earns NSW State of Origin recall

The St George Illawarra missed the 2019 decider after failing in a bid to have a dangerous contact citing overturned in a marathon hearing at League Central.

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The match was to be his third NSW appearance and turned out to be one of the most exciting finishes in Origin history.

Sims missed last year's post-season series, injuries, suspension and poor form seeing Brad Fittler overlook the forward.

The 31-year-old is back in blue, however, with the coach naming Sims to start as an edge forward for the opener on June 9.

Fittler named a talent-laden team and he's confident the squad can topple the Maroons next week.

"I'm really happy with the squad we've announced to face the Maroons for the opening game of the series," Fittler said.

"We've got a good mix of players from in-form teams and players who have worn the NSW Blues jumper with distinction in the past and never let their state down.

"I'm looking forward to working with all the players in camp and I'm confident our preparation will stand us in good stead to try and win back the Origin Shield."

The clash was originally scheduled to be played at the MCG, but is likely on the move due to Victoria's covid crisis. An announcement from the NRL on the venue is expected on Monday, with Townsville the leading contender.

Sims is the sole Dragon selected for the Blues, with fellow Illawarra product Damien Cook also named.

The Rabbitohs hooker survived a late push from Panthers nine Api Koroisau, retaining his place despite some patchy form this year. Koroisau has been named 18^th man.

Newcastle's Tyson Frizell was widely tipped to make the team, however he was not picked. A horror Sunday afternoon likely contributed to his absence, the Illawarra-product placed on report and limping from the field injured in the Knights victory over Manly.

Sims' inclusion comes after Roosters duo Angus Crichton and Victor Radley were rubbed out of State of Origin I through suspension after a drama-filled loss to the Broncos last weekend.

In positive news, Cameron Murray is free to take his spot on the edge with the match review committee deciding not to charge the forward for a crusher tackle during South Sydney's victory over Parramatta.

Isaah Yeo is also in the clear, copping a fine, but avoiding suspension, for a high tackle on Matt Doorey. He will line up at lock and is one of six Panthers in the 18.

Brian To'o has earned a debut on the wing, with Latrell Mitchell also set to return to the Origin arena.

Payne Haas has been named on the bench despite suffering a knee injury in Thursday's loss to the Storm.

Roosters fullback James Tedesco will lead the squad, with Jarome Luai winning the race to partner Nathan Cleary in the halves. Jack Wighton is on the bench in jumper no. 14.

To'o, Luai and fellow Penrith star Liam Martin will make their debut in the series opener.

The Queensland side will be named on Monday, with Dragons captain Ben Hunt likely to be selected.