Brad Fittler has moved to defend James Tedesco's place in the NSW Blues setup, insisting the veteran fullback still has plenty to offer at State of Origin level despite questions about his form and age.
With Tedesco now 33 years old, some sections of rugby league opinion have begun to wonder whether his best years are behind him. Critics have pointed to inconsistent club performances and suggested younger fullbacks such as Dylan Edwards deserve a longer run at the position. But Fittler, the former Blues captain who now coaches the state side, remains convinced that Tedesco's experience and skill set make him the right choice for NSW.
Tedesco's Origin pedigree is beyond question. He played for New South Wales in the State of Origin series from 2016-2024, and captained the side from Game 2 2020 to Game 3 2023. He played in all three games of New South Wales' successful origin campaign in 2019, ultimately winning the Wally Lewis Medal for best player in the series. More recently, he became the third most capped skipper in tri-colours history only behind Brad Fittler (199 games) and Jake Friend (121 games), underlining his importance to the Roosters and his state.
The debate over Tedesco's future at Origin level reflects a broader question facing NSW as the 2026 series approaches. The 2026 Ampol State of Origin Series will kick off at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Wednesday, May 27 before heading to Melbourne for the second time in three years with Game Two to be held at the MCG on June 17. Brisbane will be the site of the third and final showdown, with a potential series decider set for July 8 on Maroons turf at Suncorp Stadium.
The competition for the fullback position reflects the depth of talent available to Fittler. Dylan Edwards has spent a handful of games on the sideline to start the 2025 season and has been unable to take the Panthers out of the doldrums in the games he has played. While he only has five try involvements in seven games, his average run metres standing at 189 per game are what he got picked off last year. James Tedesco is a key rival, with recent form figures showing both players remain in contention.
Fittler's continued faith in Tedesco mirrors his broader coaching philosophy. Rather than chase youth for its own sake, the Blues coach appears to value experience and proven ability under pressure. Tedesco's trophy cabinet, which includes a World Cup win and multiple State of Origin accolades, suggests that experience counts for something in the interstate arena.
What remains to be seen is whether Tedesco can silence his critics through performance. The coming NRL season will determine who gets selected when the team is named for Game One in May, and whether Fittler's confidence in the veteran is justified.