Cameron Murray admits to potential shock State of Origin role

Rabbitohs gun Cameron Murray has admitted he could be set for a run at hooker during State of Origin Game I as coach Brad Fittler looks to fit in his stars. Blues coach Fittler surprised fans when he opted against picking Damien Cook as the bench player and went with one recognised No.9 in Api Koroisau.

This is in contrast to the Maroons who will use the combination of Ben Hunt to start, before the in-form hooker of the NRL Harry Grant comes on when the game slows. Fittler's decision caused controversy over whether utility star Nicho Hynes will come on and play in that hooker role, or take up the five-eighth position.

'NEVER FORGET': NRL world remembers 'Queen' Tina Turner

STATE OF ORIGIN 2023: What NSW got right and wrong for Game I

Jarome Luai is also another player that could move to hooker if Koroisau is given a break due to the fast-paced action of Origin. However, Murray - who can play lock or in the second row - has also put his name up for the No.9 position if called upon.

And when asked if he thought there was a possibility it could be him to move in at hooker, he replied: "I think it is. But in saying that there are a few other options too. We’ve got Nicho there in the 14 jumper who is probably a good fit there as well," he added on Thursday.

“I don’t think I’ve played a full game there (at any level). I’ve played bits and pieces there and practice a little bit after training here and there with Cookie. I help him out with his passes, so I get a bit of practice there. I haven’t played too much there but I’m confident I can do the job if I do end up there.

“Api is an 80-minute hooker. He’s fit, he doesn’t really drop off too much in games so I’m guessing that will probably be first case and best case scenario, but anything can happen.”

Cameron Murray address Damien Cook absence

Murray said he had spoken to his club teammate, Cook, about his surprise absence from the team. Many thought Cook was a selection certainty for Fittler considering the Rabbitohs are equal top of the table.

Cook has returned to form having lost his starting spot last year to Koroisau. Blues centre Latrell Mitchell admitted in camp he was surprised Cook wasn't selected in the squad.

And while Murray said Cook was 'disappointed' at not being selected, he also reiterated Mitchell's reaction at Fittler's decision.

“I was. I might be a little bit biassed but I think Cookie is up there with the best hookers in the comp...So I was a little bit surprised and disappointed but in saying that I understand that’s just how it can go as well, there’s no bad blood or anything, I’ve got full confidence in Api.”

Sign up to our newsletter and score the biggest sport stories of the week.