Stefano Utoikamanu says ‘it’s a dream come true’ to be making his debut for NSW in game two of this year’s Ampol State of Origin series.
The Wests Tigers prop has been named to come off the bench for the Blues at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday week as NSW fights to level the series.
The 23-year-old was part of the extended squad for game one, which the Blues lost 26-18 to Queensland at Adelaide Oval.
Utoikamanu was also named on an extended bench for Origin three in 2021, and has shown strong form through the opening 15 rounds of the NRL season.
“This has been a dream of mine for many years and I am so happy to have been selected,” said Utoikamanu.
“It’s been wonderful being in and around the squad and I cannot wait to do my best for the team and NSW next week.
This really is a dream come true.
Stefano Utoikamanu
Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens says Utoikamanu’s selection is a reward for hard work and consistency.
“Stefano has been working hard for this club and his Wests Tigers teammates since he arrived here a few years ago,” said Sheens.
He thoroughly deserves this opportunity and I speak on behalf of all of us at Wests Tigers in wishing him well.
Tim Sheens
Game II of the 2023 Ampol State of Origin series is being played at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday 21st June.
NSW team:
1. James Tedesco (c) (Sydney Roosters)
2. Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers)
3. Latrell Mitchell (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
4. Tom Trbojevic (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles)
5. Josh Addo-Carr (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)
6. Jarome Luai (Penrith Panthers)
7. Mitchell Moses (Parramatta Eels)
8. Junior Paulo (Parramatta Eels)
9. Damien Cook (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
10. Payne Haas (Brisbane Broncos)
11. Tyson Frizell (Newcastle Knights)
12. Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders)
13. Isaah Yeo (Penrith Panthers)
14. Stefano Utoikamanu (Wests Tigers)
15. Cameron Murray (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
16. Liam Martin (Penrith Panthers)
17. Reece Robson (North Queensland Cowboys)
18. Stephen Crichton (Penrith Panthers)
19. Keaon Koloamatangi (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
Coach: Brad Fittler
