“Stephen will be coming off the bench. He and Brian To’o have played on Penrith’s right wing, but both have also played on the left. I have a plan for Stephen.”
Crichton had no idea what Fittler’s “plan” entailed, was happy to be inside the Blues camp, and wanted to “take this opportunity wisely.”
“I’ve played on the sidelines, the only position I haven’t played is on defense and front row; where Freddy needs me, I’ll play,” Crichton said.
Fittler also confirmed that Tariq Sims and Cameron Murray would be his starting linebackers, with the coach more than comfortable showing loyalty to the unwanted Dragon.
“Just looking at it from St George Illawarra, Tariq has done a great job,” Fittler said.
“Loyalty must be maintained but not [blind] loyalty. If you did, everyone would continue to play Origin until the age of 34. “
Crichton, Liam Martin, Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Ryan Matterson will perform on the bench, with Nicho Hynes, 18th.
A big topic of conversation was the elimination of Josh Addo-Carr, but Fittler said it was more of a case of Daniel Tupou playing his way back to the Blues.
“Josh has been in shape,” Fittler said.
Loading
“Daniel has played his way to the side. He was here two years ago and was one of our best players. He played in 2014 when NSW won the series. He knows what it takes to beat Queensland.
“What ‘Foxx’ brings to the team not only on the field but off the field was a difficult decision. It was a tough decision. But Daniel deserves it.”
The Bulldogs and Wests Tigers are at the wrong end of the ladder and have been unable to provide a single player to NSW. Flying Penrith will have seven, including Api Koroisau, who is part of the extended, free bench to play the Panthers on Friday night against the Dogs.
Joseph Suaalii has joined the team, with Fittler making sure he sounded Roosters coach Trent Robinson and President Nick Politis over the opening of the sky blue welcome mat for the 18-year-old.
Play NRL Premiership 2022 live and free 9 See.