Jarome Luai ruled out of crucial Tigers clash as NSW Blues selectors sweat on star

Tigers five-eighth Jarome Luai has been ruled out of his side's Friday night clash with Manly, forcing a reshuffle to the side.

The Sydney Morning Herald has reported Luai has a boil on his chest, and didn't participate in the captain's run on Thursday.

Considering Luai's absence is only down to an infection, it's unlikely to put him in any doubt for Origin III on July 9.

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Luai played Origin II on June 18 and then backed up two days later to play in the Tigers' loss against the Raiders.

If he played on Friday night, it would've meant he featured in three games across 10 days.

Coach Benji Marshall wasn't willing to take that risk and is expected to move Api Koroisau into the halves and Tallyn Da Silva will play hooker.

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Luai is expected to be named at five-eighth in Laurie Daley's Blues team again on Sunday night.

Da Silva is currently in negotiations with other clubs about leaving the Tigers amid the decision to prioritise the signing of Koroisau.

Earlier in the week it was revealed on 100% Footy the Tigers would also be without Jahream Bula for possibly a month after a hamstring injury.