The reunion a decade in the making inspiring Brailey's Blues debut
- Author
- Timestamp
NSW rookie Blayke Brailey is relishing the chance to reunite with former junior representative teammate Reece Robson as the hookers prepare to team up in next week's State of Origin opener.
The pair were engaged in a close battle for a starting spot in Laurie Daley's side, with incumbent Robson ultimately retaining the No.9 jersey and Brailey named on the six-man bench for a potential Blues debut.
The race for selection is a throwback to junior football for the duo, who battled it out for junior representative jumpers as teenagers growing up in the Sutherland Shire.
Blayke Brailey Try
Brailey and Robson were members of the NSW Under 18 squad in 2016 and played Australian Schoolboys together later that season.
"Coming through the grades we played each other a lot," Brailey told NRL.com. "He's a great player and we made those rep sides together.
"It's a familiar role with him starting and me coming off the bench so I'm excited to build that combination and work with him again.
"Having that determination to be at the top level is always a great motivator and having him side by side and always fighting for everything, it's made me a better player and it's healthy competition which is good for us."
The Blues went into camp on the Central Coast on Tuesday and completed their first session in front of thousands of adoring fans in Wyong on Wednesday morning.
Centre Stephen Crichton didn't train as he continues to manage a shoulder injury, with Casey McLean stepping in but NSW officials have no concerns about the Bulldogs captain and expect him to have a bigger involvement in Thursday's session.
Robson's career took off after he moved from St George Illawarra to North Queensland in 2020 and he quickly developed into a representative player. The hooker made his NSW debut in 2023.
Brailey has been forced to be much more patient despite being a mainstay in the Sharks side since breaking into the NRL in 2019.
A scintillating finish to the 2025 season followed by an impressive start to the new year were enough for the hooker to force his way into the squad and earn his first Blues jumper.
Inside camp: Victor Radley
Brailey admits he shed a tear when he received the phone call from NSW coach Laurie Daley on Sunday night. While he would love to be starting next Wednesday, the number on his back has always held a special place in his heart.
"Seventeen's a great number," Brailey said. "It's my lucky number so I'm excited to wear it.
"Growing up in Barden Ridge, the house I lived in was No.17. It was special growing up there in that small little house. It was on a hill and my dad would hold a punching bag and run down the hill. We'd have to chase after him and tackle it.
"That's how I learned how to tackle. It's not the most normal way to do it but it has definitely helped me, it's cool to reflect on those moments. There's a lot of memories of that house so it's special to make my debut in No.17."
While Brailey has starred for the Sharks, Robson's form to start the year has been just as impressive. The 27-year-old has taken his game to another level after joining the Roosters and played a key role in his new club's rise up the ladder.
Working closely with Roosters and NSW fullback James Tedesco, the pair have been constantly snipping around the ruck and taking advantage of quick play the balls.
Inside camp: James Tedesco
It's a strategy Robson is hoping to recreate at Accor Stadium next Wednesday night, with Origin favouring a direct playing style.
"I've been able to focus on my role and make sure I'm taking those opportunities when they come," Robson said. "The style of footy we play is a powerful, front-door type of footy which allows me to get my hands on the ball a lot more without having to pass or go sideways.
"I can play a bit more direct, with suits me and to play alongside someone like Teddy, who's the same in he likes to go through the middle.
"To have him beside me in this arena is going to be unreal and hopefully we'll be able to play through the Queensland side as best we can and as much as we can."
Tickets to State of Origin are selling fast. Don't miss out on your chance to witness history live and get your tickets today.
