Josh Dugan and Aaron Woods earn NSW Blues call-ups for State of Origin II

JOSH Dugan has completed a remarkable rise from booze bad boy to the Blues because Laurie Daley says "league is about giving people chances".

JOSH Dugan has completed a remarkable rise from booze bad boy to the Blues because NSW coach Laurie Daley says "rugby league is about giving people chances".

When incumbent Blues fullback Jarryd Hayne telephoned Daley on Saturday to tell him "I'm no good", Daley did not hesitate to put Dugan in his place for Origin II on Wednesday week.

In another surprise, Wests Tigers prop Aaron Woods has been rushed into the Blues' starting side to replace the suspended James Tamou. 

thankful for the second chance the dragons have given me to get back in the blues side! Cannot wait! Also thanks to the fans 4 ur support 👌✌

— Josh Dugan (@Josh_Dugan) June 16, 2013

Otherwise, NSW have retained the same side that beat Queensland 14-6 in Origin I at ANZ Stadium.

When asked if Dugan's past was a concern, Daley said: "No. He has paid the penalty and that is what we judge people on.

"This game is about giving people chances and opportunities and he has responded. His past was irrelevant. Josh has paid his dues and responded in the best possible way since coming back to the NRL.

"Josh had issues earlier this year but has been outstanding over the past few weeks. If you look at his numbers, he is probably better than any other fullback in the game.

"I guess you could say he wasn't on our radar before game one but that is what makes our game so good. It gives people the chance to redeem themselves and if you work hard, the opportunities are there."

FROM ZERO TO $2.8M FOR DUGAN

Dugan, who will have scans today on an injured ankle, was delighted with his selection.

"I'm very thankful to be given this opportunity to represent NSW," Dugan said. "I look forward to going into camp. I have been concentrating on playing for the Dragons since joining the club over a month ago, so to be named for the Blues is a great bonus.

"It's unfortunate for Jarryd that his hamstring hasn't recovered enough in time for him to be selected as he was very competitive in game one. I will focus now on the next 10 days ahead (in camp) and will do whatever the coaching staff requires of me."

Hayne's hamstring has not been responding to treatment and the Parramatta star knew he would hurt the Blues' chances of ending the Maroons' seven-year reign if he broke down early in the game.

It was also feared that Hayne would not be able to run until deep into the week.

And once Daley decided Dugan's off-field behaviour would not count against him, the Blues had a ready-made replacement for Hayne.

SIX SORE AND SORRY BLUES

Dugan's form since joining St George Illawarra from Canberra, who sacked him three months ago, has been irresistible.

"Josh has been in really good form since returning to footy," Daley said last night. "He is playing to the highest standard. He is a State of Origin player and has been there before (in 2011).

"The atmosphere won't unnerve him. He is an immense talent. Jarryd was disappointed to miss out. His hamstring hasn't responded in the short space of time."

NSW: Josh Dugan, Brett Morris, Michael Jennings, Josh Morris, Blake Ferguson, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Paul Gallen, Robbie Farah, Aaron Woods, Ryan Hoffman, Luke Lewis, Greg Bird. Interchange: Andrew Fifita, Trent Merrin, Josh Reynolds, Anthony Watmough

Wests Tigers Training