James Roberts heading to Sydney to join NSW Origin camp, Ryan James’ Origin hopes dashed

JAMES “The Jet” Roberts is bound for NSW Origin camp but Gold Coast Titans captain Ryan James is set to miss out on a Blues call-up

Ryan James of the Titans during the Round 8 NRL match between the Gold Coast titans and the Cronulla Sharks at Robina Stadium on the Gold Coast, Saturday, April 28, 2018. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

JAMES “The Jet” Roberts is bound for NSW Origin camp but Gold Coast Titans captain Ryan James is set to miss out on a Blues call-up

Roberts will join Brad Fittler’s new-look 20-man squad in Sydney today ahead of next Wednesday’s State of Origin series-opener and is in line to make his Origin debut at the MCG at right centre.

Broncos centre Roberts aggravated an Achilles injury in last Thursday’s win against Parramatta and will have to pass a fitness test to earn his debut and confront Maroons legend Greg Inglis.

The 25-year-old Roberts has had a strong start to the season and said he was ready for an Origin debut.

“If I get the call-up it’d be awesome,” he said after the Eels game.

“It would be a really good achievement for myself, my family and my people.

“I’ll be really stoked. I’m sure I won’t be worried about my ankle.

“I’m a lot more mature as a person and player. Hopefully that helps.

“Making the side is a lot different to performing. That’s another job.”

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James Roberts of the Broncos is bound for the NSW Origin camp.

James was being sized up for a shock inclusion in the squad, but is now likely to be overlooked.

The 26-year-old Gold Coast skipper’s form has been solid without being spectacular in recent weeks, but Fittler is determined to undertake a cultural overhaul of the Blues and has identified James as a potential new player.

Titans coach Garth Brennan said James deserved an Origin call-up although it looks like his Origin dream has again been put on hold.

“Ryan has really stepped up for me this year,” he said.

“I have challenged ‘Dark’ with some leadership stuff and he has really responded to what I expect of him.

“He hasn’t been far away from NSW selection for some time, so hopefully this is his year.”

Fittler will have to cut three players from his squad before the match.

Ryan James has missed out on Origin selection once again.

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