Injured Penrith Panthers star Liam Martin has revealed that State of Origin is the furthest thing from his mind as he continues his recovery from a knee injury. The Blues veteran told 7NEWS he’s making good progress but has resigned himself to being a reluctant spectator for the Origin opener at Accor Stadium in just over three weeks.
“I hate being on the sideline, definitely missing it,” Martin said. “My biggest focus was getting back and playing with the Panthers. You know, that’s my number one priority, so hopefully get back playing consistent footy with them and then whatever happens, happens.”
Martin is expected to return to the field early next month. Meanwhile, Latrell Mitchell is considered a shoo-in for NSW selection under coach Laurie Daley. He endured a down year at State of Origin level last year, boasting seven tries in 11 Blues games but failing to cross the line last season in Queensland’s 2-1 series victory.
“I love the Blues, it’s NSW, it’s what we represent,” Mitchell said. Parramatta flyer Josh Addo-Carr, who has 11 tries in 15 Origin games, could line up alongside Mitchell in a NSW jersey for the first time since 2021. His chances of earning a recall have been helped by injuries to Canterbury’s Jacob Kiraz and Sydney Roosters winger Mark Nawaqanitawase.
Addo-Carr made the last of his 15 NSW appearances in 2023 after being overlooked by Brad Fittler due to his indifferent form during his time at the Bulldogs the following season. The winger won selection on last year’s Kangaroos tour after an encouraging end to 2025, his first season with the Eels. Addo-Carr has four tries in eight games for Parramatta this year and was part of a meet-up scheduled by Daley and his Blues staff in the pre-season.
“We had a get-together at the start of the year and just being in the mix for that is something I’m super proud of,” Addo-Carr said. “If Laurie wants me or needs me I’ll do everything I can to help the state and the team.”
