League: Buderus now 50-50 for Origin opener

New South Wales captain Danny Buderus remains a doubtful starter for tomorrow night's opening State of Origin match against Queensland in Sydney, after missing training yesterday with a back injury.

Blues coach Graham Murray described the hooker's chances of playing as "50-50" and said he would check on his fitness again this morning.

"I'm not sure which way to lean but I just look at the calibre of the bloke he is and he's tough and he wants to play so I am leaning towards he'll play," he said.

Penrith's Luke Priddis trained with the Blues in Buderus's place.

"He (Buderus) has had extensive physio and we'll just see how he is (on Tuesday)," Murray said.

"Obviously if you don't train today you are obviously in a bit of doubt. That's why we've asked Luke to come down."

Priddis has played three Origin matches before and says he will be out to make the most of the chance if he gets to play.

"I'm looking forward to the opportunity if Danny doesn't pull through," he confirmed.

- RADIO AUSTRALIA