State of Origin I expert tips: James Tedesco backed for stunning return two years after Blues axing
James Tedesco appears primed for a standout display in the State of Origin series opener, with two of NSW's all-time greats among those tipping him to deliver a man of the match performance.
After getting axed from the side two years ago, Tedesco's form at club land with the Roosters became impossible to ignore, earning him a recall at 33 years of age.
The champion fullback won last year's Dally M Medal and started the 2026 campaign in blistering form, edging out Dylan Edwards for the Blues No.1 jersey.
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James Tedesco will make his Origin return on Wednesday night. Getty
NSW will start the game as favourites despite the absence of Mitchell Moses, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury and replaced by debutant Ethan Strange.
According to both Andrew Johns and Brad Fittler, it will be the Roosters captain who stands up and delivers in front of a packed Accor Stadium.
Here's who Nine's panel of experts are tipping for the clash in Sydney.
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State of Origin game one expert predictions
Andrew Johns: NSW by 6, James Tedesco MOM
Brad Fittler: NSW by 8, James Tedesco MOM
Ruan Sims: NSW by 6, James Tedesco MOM
Peter Psaltis: QLD by 6, Sam Walker MOM
Paul Gallen: NSW by 2, Nathan Cleary MOM
Mat Thompson: NSW by 1, Nathan Cleary MOM
The Mole: NSW by 7, James Tedesco MOM
Ben Glover: NSW by 4, Haumole Olakau'atu MOM
David Middleton: NSW by 6, James Tedesco MOM
