City coach Brad Fittler says he expects axed Kangaroos prop Andrew Fifita to make a huge statement in next Sunday’s NSW City v Country Origin match in Dubbo.

Fifita was omitted from Tim Sheens’ Test side named on Sunday, and Fittler had no hesitation in selecting the Cronulla front-rower for his City team.

“He played last year and was fantastic and it led to him playing Origin and in the Test side,” Fittler said.

“I am looking forward to having him in camp again.”

Fittler was unable to call on the services of Parramatta duo Tim Mannah (ear drum) and Nathan Peats (knee).

Country coach Trent Barrett named Newcastle halves pairing Jarrod Mullen and Tyrone Roberts in his side with injuries ruling out both Todd Carney and James Maloney.

“I would say now that Jarrod Mullen has soared back into contention (for the NSW Origin team) with the injuries to others,” Barrett said.

“It’s a good chance for him to show what he can do.”

NSW City: Matt Moylan, Daniel Tupou, Will Hopoate, Dylan Walker, Jorge Taufua, Josh Reynolds, A Reynolds, Andrew Fifita, Beau Falloon, Aaron Woods, Tony Williams, Ryan Hoffman (capt), Wade Graham. Interchange: Jamie Buhrer, David Klemmer, Tim Grant, Aidan Sezer. 18th man: Trent Hodkinson.

NSW Country: Josh Dugan, Michael Gordon, Jack Wighton, Jamal Idris, James McManus, Tyrone Roberts, Trent Merrin, Mitch Rein, Aiden Tolman (capt), Beau Scott, Josh Jackson, Adam Docker. Interchange: Josh McCrone, Paul Vaughan, Dale Finucane, Tariq Sims. 18th man: TBA