Tupou, Fifita dropped by NSW

Andrew Fifita and Daniel Tupou have been dumped from the NSW side for State of Origin II for returning duo Paul Gallen and Brett Morris.

The Blues side was named on Tuesday for the MCG clash, with Gallen’s and Morris’ inclusions a huge boost for NSW after the pair missed the Blues’ loss in the series opener due to injury.

Sydney Roosters winger Tupou has made way for Morris, with captain Gallen’s move into the back-row pushing Josh Jackson to the bench and Fifita out of the side.

Hooker Robbie Farah is a near certain starter for the match on June 17 as he recovers from a shoulder injury suffered in Game I.

“Robbie will train on Wednesday with the rest of the group,” coach Laurie Daley said after the announcement.

“It’s pretty important to go into an Origin preparation with training under your belt and Rob’s an experienced campaigner.

“He’ll do a bit of training with the group on Wednesday and Thursday, and I’m sure like everyone we’re all excited about the challenge for Game II.

“We’ve got a really good group of guys that’s up for the challenge and we’ll be prepared well.”

The Blues fly to Coffs Harbour on Tuesday morning to begin preparations for the must-win encounter.

NSW: Josh Dugan, Brett Morris, Josh Morris, Michael Jennings, Will Hopoate, Mitchell Pearce, Trent Hodkinson, James Tamou, Robbie Farah, Aaron Woods, Beau Scott, Ryan Hoffman, Paul Gallen (c). Interchange: Josh Jackson, Trent Merrin, Boyd Cordner, David Klemmer.

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