Klemmer set to be overlooked for Origin 3 if Sims beats ban
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Newcastle prop David Klemmer is set to be overlooked for the State of Origin series decider if Tariq Sims beats his dangerous contact ban at the NRL judiciary.
In a move which would be a major surprise given Klemmer is an established representative player at state and national level, Blues coach Brad Fittler looks set to stick with Knights young gun Daniel Saifiti for Origin III at ANZ Stadium on July 10.
Saifiti made his Origin debut in game two after Klemmer was ruled out with a wrist injury, however Klemmer was one NSW's best forwards in last year's winning series and again played strongly in game one a few weeks ago.
Fittler appears to want to show loyalty to the team that did the job in game two, however the looming decision to overlook Klemmer will be seen by many as puzzling given his stature in the game.
The Blues will announce their squad for Origin III on Monday afternoon.
Match: Blues v Maroons
Game 3 -
home Team
Blues
away Team
Maroons
Venue: Accor Stadium, Sydney
Sims is facing a two-match ban after the match review committee charged him with dangerous contact to the head/neck of Cowboys playmaker Michael Morgan during Friday's win by St George Illawarra in Wollongong.
The NSW bench forward, if he challenges the charge at a judiciary hearing on Tuesday night, risks a three-match suspension if found guilty.
Nathan Cleary is set to be selected at halfback and given until Thursday to prove his fitness.
