AAP Rugby

Keary's release from Origin camp pushed back a day

By AAP Newswire

May 31, 2024

Nicho Hynes is firming to play for NSW in State of Origin I against Queensland on June 5. -AAP Image

Luke Keary's release from NSW camp has been pushed back a day as Blues officials opt to keep him with the squad for additional training.

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Keary was expected to be sent back to the Sydney Roosters on Friday, allowing him to train with the club ahead of their NRL clash with North Queensland on Sunday.

But after talks between Blues coach Michael Maguire and Roosters counterpart Trent Robinson, Keary's exit was delayed until Saturday afternoon.

It means the Blues' back-up half will be free to participate in an opposed session with NSW on Saturday morning, before returning to Sydney for the Cowboys game.

AAP has been told that Keary will then re-enter camp after the match, able to train with the Blues side on Monday.

NRL rules dictate that each state's 19th and 20th man must be released back to their squad to be available for club football on the weekend before Origin.

NSW remain confident that Nicho Hynes will overcome a calf injury and be fit to play halfback on Wednesday night against Queensland.

The 27-year-old trained with teammates on Thursday, after sitting out Wednesday's session due to the calf issue.

Keary is the Blues' back-up option at halfback if Hynes is not fit, with the Roosters veteran training at No.7 in the first squad session on Wednesday.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press