With the NRL approaching the Origin series at Accor Stadium on May 27, Greg Prichard provides a clear assessment of the fullback and halves dilemmas for NSW and Queensland.For the Blues, Dylan Edwards is recommended at fullback over James Tedesco, whose Origin career has peaked and who is now 33.

Edwards, fully fit and in dominant form for Penrith, deserves the role, continuing the transition from Tedesco, who was recalled temporarily due to injury.

In the halves, Nathan Cleary and Mitchell Moses are the preferred combination, with Moses demonstrating his value with recent clutch performances for Parramatta.For Queensland, Reece Walsh should start at fullback, while Kalyn Ponga is best utilised on the bench to provide flexibility and attacking impact.Cameron Munster and Sam Walker are the obvious halves pairing for the Maroons, with Walker stepping up following Tom Dearden's injury.

Prichard stresses that Origin selection should favour current form and readiness rather than past reputation, pointing out that experienced players like Tedesco and Daly Cherry-Evans have had their time at Origin level.The column aims to cut through public debate and present a rational approach to team selections, balancing youth, form, and positional strategy.