Recalled Blues centre Bradman Best sent for scans hours after Origin selection

Jarred Cross
Jarred Cross Published July 8, 2024 at 11.30am (AWST)

The Blues' selected squad for game three has been dealt an early piece of drama with Origin recall Bradman Best sent for scans on his hamstring just hours after earning his second appearance for the state.

On Sunday, Best was named as replacement for injured centre Latrell Mitchell.

The 22-year-old scored twice on Origin debut in last year's series closer, a 24-10 win for the Blues having already lost their chance at reclaiming the shield to Queensland.

According to reports on Monday, Best has been sent for precautionary scans on his hamstring with Matt Burton brought into the NSW setup as a potential cover.

The Knights centre was an early tip to feature in game one before a hamstring injury cruelled any chance of adding to his Origin honours.

It's understood Best is widely expected to be right to play and prepare in the NSW camp.

Speaking on Monday morning, Blues coach Michael Maguire said Best has proven his worth in the arena after winning the race for the vacant job in the centres.

"He's actually been there before. He was probably one of the best players in the last game last year, and he's shown that he can definitely play at that level," Maguire said.

"But also too, just the way he plays. I obviously had a lot of thoughts about him before we all started the series..but he was out injured. So it's nice to see him back, running around and playing really well."

Best was recalled off the back of hot form at clubland.

He was instrumental with two late tries to drag his side over the line in Newcastle's 34-26 win over Parramatta in round 17 before another strong showing in a 16-12 win over Canberra on Sunday.

Knights teammates Dane Gagai and Kalyn Ponga were both named in Billy Slater's Maroons side for next week's decider.

   Related   

   Jarred Cross   

Download our App

@natindigtimes
Article Audio

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.

National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.