With Game I of the 2024 State of Origin series just over a month away, discussions around the selections of both sides have swung into gear.
With both sides being hit by a severe injury bug, we could be looking at a minimum of four debutants making their way out onto the field for the series opener.
The Maroons look set to be without Tom Flegler and Kalyn Ponga, whilst the Blues will be missing the experience of Cameron Murray and a handful of backs that look in doubt for Game I.
With the Blues looking at a likely shift in the backline to accommodate for the large number of injuries, The Sydney Morning Herald’s Adrian Proszenko revealed a surprising name that may be in the race for a spot in the centres.
“I’ll tell you one guy who hasn’t been mentioned as of yet, who is a smokey that ‘Madge’ and his team have been looking at, Jesse Ramien,” Proszenko said on SEN 1170 NRL Crunch Time.
“(He’s been) really good this year, really good.
“Stephen Crichton’s obviously sewn up one of the centre spots and Crichton can play both sides but the bolter is Ramien.
“If he has a big month of football he’s well and truly in the frame.”
Proszenko conceded that whilst the Sharks' start to the season has been relatively easy compared to the other side with a stronger schedule coming up, Ramien has a real chance to stake his claim for a Blues jersey.
“You could say that the Sharks have beaten up on some lesser opponents recently but over the next little bit they play the Dragons, after that, they’ve got the Storm, Roosters and Panthers.
“So, if Jesse Ramien holds his own there, he is well and truly in the mix.”
The 2024 Origin series kicks off at Accor Stadium in Sydney as the Blues host the Maroons on Wednesday, June 5th.