NRL 2026: Andrew Johns calls for Panthers star to be axed in stunning move for State of Origin 1 …

Explore the latest developments concerning NRL 2026: Andrew.

NRL 2026: Andrew Johns calls for Panthers star to be axed in stunning move for State of Origin 1

Andrew Johns has picked James Tedesco in his predicted NSW team for State of Origin 1, leaving out Panthers hero and incumbent Blues fullback Dylan Edwards. Panthers star Edwards has been NSW fullback for the last two series, helping the Blues win in 2024 but unable to prevent a Queensland triumph last season.

Prior to that, Tedesco had a mortgage on the NSW No.1 jersey and played 23 Origin games for the Blues. Tedesco was dropped as fullback and captain when Michael Maguire took over in 2024, and Daley again went with Edwards in 2025.

Edwards was also the back-up option to Reece Walsh for the Kangaroos in the Ashes, but it's believed it would have been Tedesco in the squad if he didn't withdraw for his brother's wedding. Edwards and Tedesco have both been in good form so start 2026, however Edwards has made some uncharacteristic errors.

'Hopefully I don't get the boot': Munster turns to Yeo for tips on form slump

Maroons captain Cameron Munster is so desperate to overcome the form slump he fears could cost him his Origin spot that he sought the advice of Blues counterpart Isaah Yeo.

Munster and Yeo were at the MCG for the Origin series launch with rival Queensland and NSW coaches, Billy Slater and Laurie Daley when the superstar five-eighth asked the Blues skipper how Penrith had turned their 2025 season around.

The Panthers are leading the NRL after just one loss this season and beat the Storm 50-10 but last year the four-times back-to-back premiers were sitting on the bottom of the NRL ladder until Round 12.

The dynamic landscape of current events often brings forth significant discussions. Monitoring these developments provides crucial insights.

For more detailed information, explore updates concerning NRL 2026: Andrew.

For more news…