Jack Wighton in NSW State of Origin backflip drama

Eye-opening details have emerged about new Blues coach Michael Maguire’s State of Origin plans with a Jack Wighton development emerging.

jack wighton picture: nrl photos

There’s growing speculation that new Rabbitohs recruit Jack Wighton could make himself available for selection for the Blues this season.

Wighton cited family reasons and wanting to win a premiership at the Raiders last year for retiring from representative football.

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However, according to The Daily Telegraph, those close to Wighton believe the 30-year-old is plotting a return to the representative arena under new Blues coach Michael Maguire.

Wighton left Canberra this off-season, the team he played at for 12 years, to sign a contract with South Sydney, linking up with close friend Latrell Mitchell.

Wighton’s availability would be a huge asset for Maguire, who was announced as new coach of New South Wales after Brad Fittler decided to step away from the role.

New NSW Blues coach Michael Maguire.

If Wighton does decide to change his decision, he will be one of a swath of Rabbitohs who will be in the mix for New South Wales selection, a list that included Mitchell, hooker Damien Cook, Keaon Koloamatangi, Cam Murray and Cody Walker.

Maguire’s coaching staff which include John Cartwright and Matt King will also take part in the gathering at NSWRL headquarters.

Meanwhile, Maguire is reportedly open to selecting code-hopping star Joseph Suaalii for his 2024 Origin series campaign.

Jack Wighton of the Blues looks on during game one of the 2022 State of Origin series. Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images.

That is according to the SMH who are reporting the 20-year-old’s multimillion dollar switch to rugby union won’t stop him from representing the Blues.

Suaalii signed a three-year deal worth over $5 million with Rugby Australia in March and will feature in both the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 World Cup.

Maguire is reportedly set to name a squad of 40 players to take part in a Blues camp as NSWRL headquarters on February 3-4 as he attempts to stop Queensland’s dominance over the past two series.

Suaalii is set to be named in that squad, despite questions being raised over his potential selection due to the publicity it creates for the rival 15-man code.

His position in the Roosters’ backline also remains unclear, with recruit Dom Young arriving this pre-season, while Joey Manu, Billy Smith and Daniel Tupou were also starters.

Despite his move Roosters supremo Nick Politis has already stated the young gun will be welcome to return to the club once his Rugby Australia contract expires.

Originally published as Jack Wighton in NSW State of Origin backflip drama