Queensland legend and Maroons assistant Cameron Smith has questioned Brad Fittler’s selection of Stephen Crichton on the bench for New South Wales after a classic match to open State Of Origin 2022 which QLD won 16-10 in Sydney.

Many assumed Crichton would get a late call up to the starting side but was instead left languishing on the bench with Jack Wighton impressing before teammate Kotoni Staggs left with the field with injury.

“What happens with Stephen Crichton?” Smith asked on SEN.

“He sat on the bench for the most part of that game. Because Jack Wighton was playing so well and there was no reason to take him [off], they were left with the dilemma of how to use Stephen Crichton.

“(Fittler) will have a look at Nicho Hynes to play that utility role. It’s such an important role. It’ll be interesting to see how they go for Game II.”