NRL

If James Tedesco’s hunger and desire to return to pull on the blue again doesn’t show those dopey Queenslanders what playing Origin means for New South Welshmen, then nothing will, writes Spudd Carroll.

Queensland coach Billy Slater has left out the NRL’s most exciting player in a shock squad announcement.

James Tedesco is back in the NSW State of Origin fold, named in a Blues squad for the series opener that contains six debutants.

The 28-year-old said he ‘didn’t want to let his state down’ in making the call.

‘He’s ready to go back in that arena.’

The shock decision comes despite the four-time premiership coach enjoying another brilliant season.

Gus Gould is not afraid to act ruthlessly when things are not going well at Belmore, something the coach would know all too well.

Sunia Turuva has rejected the chance to go to the open market as expansion side PNG enter the NRL to sign a new deal with Wests Tigers.

I’ve got one message for all the critics out there demanding Phil Gould goes public and opens up about Canterbury’s problems — shut your own traps instead of asking him to open his.

Manly will start Joey Walsh at halfback for a second consecutive week as a groin injury continues to trouble regular No.7 Jamal Fogarty.

In-form centre Latrell Mitchell will miss up to two weeks with a back injury, his NRL side South Sydney have confirmed.

PNG has the momentum as NRL expands at a rapid rate home and abroad.

The PNG Chiefs have signed their second player with record-setting try-scorer Alex Johnston formally putting pen to paper.

Game I was an old-fashioned battle that the fans loved. Game II may be even bigger.

NRLW State of Origin shows the AFLW what is possible when matches are given clear air, writes Georgie Parker.