League: Stuart names Blues in waiting

NSW coach Ricky Stuart. Photo / Getty Images

NSW coach Ricky Stuart has taken his first step towards turning State of Origin fortunes around by naming a "Blues in waiting" squad.

The three day camp taking place in late January will feature a mix of NRL and Toyota Cup players Stuart believes could feature in future Origin teams.

Mal Meninga began by naming a developing Queensland squad when he took over as Origin coach, and the Maroons have won an unprecedented five consecutive series since.

Stuart is hoping a similar process of initiation can ensure the Blues' prospects can be groomed for the intensity of Origin before they debut.

Stuart said one of the main objectives of the camp is to have players aware of pathways for selection and have some further knowledge regarding the tradition and history of State of Origin.

"I am of firm belief that Origin victories are built on the culture and attitude of players and their desire to have respect for the NSW jumper," Stuart said.

"I am fully aware of the differences required for players to adapt to Origin football as compared to the weekly grind of the premiership and hopefully with these players we can make a difference at Origin time.

"Many of the players have progressed from very successful junior representative sides for NSW and into NRL teams and we believe they have the ability to progress further into senior Origin teams.

"One of the key messages for our "Blues in waiting" squad members will be that all they can do is prepare and be ready for when this time arrives."

His 51-man squad features inexperienced NSW representatives Jamal Idris, Jarrod Mullen, Josh Morris, Tim Mannah and Kade Snowden.

A number of the NRL's top performers considered to be on the cusp of selection were also named, including Tim Moltzen, Keith Galloway, Jamie Soward, Josh Dugan, Chris Heighington, Kevin Gordon, Mark Minichiello, Akuila Uate and Beau Champion.

Veteran Canberra lock Alan Tongue and Souths winger Nathan Merritt have been named, after years of being talked about as Origin players but never actually picked.

Stuart has also given a chance to a number of lower grade players he's identified as the State's best crop of young talent.

Tariq Sims, Ryan James, Cameron King, Drury Low, Boyd Cordner and Aaron Woods are expected to progress quickly once they fully establish themselves in first grade.

The camp will take place at Homebush from January 21-23.

Squad: Aiden Tolman, Jamal Idris, Josh Jackson, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aidan Sezer, Josh Morris (Bulldogs), Blake Ferguson, Josh Dugan, Jarrod Croker, Josh McCrone, Joel Thompson, Alan Tongue, Drury Low (Raiders), Tariq Sims (Cowboys), Matt Prior, Jamie Soward, Cameron King (Dragons), Tim Mannah, Joel Reddy (Eels), Cory Paterson, Jarrod Mullen, Akuila Uate (Knights), Tony Williams, Will Hopoate (Sea Eagles), Tim Grant, Lachlan Coote (Panthers), Mitch Aubusson, Boyd Cordner, Kane Linnett, Joseph Leilua (Roosters), Luke Douglas, Kade Snowden, Albert Kelly, Stewart Mills, Nathan Gardner (Sharks), Dylan Farrell, Nathan Merritt (Rabbitohs), Mitch Johnson, Dane Chisholm, Beau Champion (Storm), Ryan James, Mark Minichiello, Kevin Gordon (Titans), Keith Galloway, Andrew Fifita, Aaron Woods, Simon Dwyer, Chris Heighington, Tim Moltzen, Blake Ayshford (Tigers).

- AAP