Michael Jennings has been picked to play for New South Wales in State of Origin I despite being dumped from first grade by the Panthers.
Jennings played for the Windsor Wolves in reserve grade yesterday but has completed the strangest of weeks by being picked for the Blues.
The Panthers say Jennings is struggling for form, while there’s also issues with his attitude and overall contribution to the team.
NSW Coach Ricky Stuart admitted that Jennings was partly picked because of his previous work with the Blues, as was struggling Eels fullback Jarryd Hayne.
“I’m comfortable with what they’ve produced for me before and that gives me a little bit of confidence in regards to knowing they can handle the Origin arena,” Stuart said.
“Now it’s up to Jarryd and Michael to both display why they have played Origin and get back to that level or quality of football.”
Stuart said he hoped the selection of Jennings would be a “kickalong” for him to get back to quality football at club level.
Panthers skipper Luke Lewis was also selected for the Blues.
Blues squad: B Stewart, Uate, Jennings, J Morris, Hayne, Carney, Pearce, Tamou, Farah, Gallen, Lewis, G Stewart, Bird, Creagh, Buhrer, Merrin, T Williams
