Mitch Moses has been named to make his State of Origin debut for the NSW Blues in Game III, alongside teammate Junior Paulo.
He will become the first Parramatta Eels halfback to represent NSW since John Simon in 1997.
The 26-year-old has earned his spot in the team after an impressive few seasons leading the Blue & Gold in the NRL.
The 2019 Dally M Halfback of the Year was touted as the man to replace the injured Nathan Cleary and did enough on Friday night against the Penrith Panthers to earn a call up.
He will link up with halves partner Jack Wighton, who replaces the injured Jarome Luai.
Moses has the chance to steer the Blues to a series clean sweep against the Qld Maroons in Origin III.
His sublime kicking game this season, rivals the best in the NRL,.
He has the most try assists through kicks (16) of any player in the NRL this year and also boasts 332.6 average kick metres and a 76.7% goal conversion rate.
Moses joins teammate Junior Paulo who has been a fixture in the team the last two years.
The Eels’ prop started in Game II to help the Blues reclaim the Origin shield.
In that game, he played 42 minutes, ran for 92 metres, including 32 post-contact metres and made nine hit ups.
Paulo will play his sixth game for the Blues next Wednesday July 14.
A decision is pending on the venue for the third State of Origin due to COVID-19 restrictions.
