TO’O KEEN FOR ‘CRITTA’ TO GET ORIGIN NOD
PENRITH tackle-busting machine Brian To’o has urged NSW coach Brad Fittler to pick his Panthers teammate Stephen Crichton to partner him on the left edge for the State of Origin opener next month.
Who will replace the injured Latrell Mitchell at left centre for the Blues is one of the most contentious decisions that Fittler faces in the coming weeks.
Crichton is definitely on his radar, but faces strong competition from Kotoni Staggs, Matt Burton and Siosifa Talakai, who are all vying to make their Origin debuts.
But it looks like Crichton may have his nose in front, especially if Fittler wants to take advantage of club combinations.
The Panthers will likely supply halves Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai, with Brian To’o a certainty to reclaim his spot on the left wing, even if he’s too modest to admit it.
The nuggety winger had a breakout series for the Blues last year alongside Mitchell, but with the South Sydney superstar hamstrung, he wants a familiar face to partner him on June 8.
“If I was to get picked, I’d put my hand up for ‘Critta’,” To’o said following Penrith’s loss to Parramatta.
“If he works hard enough to earn his spot, then God willing, he gets chosen to play. I’ll back Critta because he’s still at a young age but he’s already played some big games. He’s got a lot of experience under his belt and he’s younger than me so I know he’s ready for those moments.”