New South Wales selector Greg Alexander says he was shocked to read Jack Wighton may make himself unavailable for State of Origin selection as early as this year.
The Raiders superstar has played 10 games for the Blues, and has been used in the centres, halves, and off the bench.
He has also represented Australia five times, playing at centre in last year’s victorious World Cup campaign for the Kangaroos.
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But a News Corp report in recent days claims the 30-year-old is considering putting his hand down for Blues selection.
It follows a bombshell a fortnight ago when Wighton told the Raiders he would not take up a contract option for 2024, putting himself on the open market.
“I had heard he was considering being done with representative football, which would be a shame, it really would,” Alexander told Fox League on Sunday.
“Jack has been a big part of the side over the last five seasons… he’s had some great games for NSW.
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“He is an Origin player. He’s tough.
“Hopefully me or Freddy (Blues coach Brad Fittler) can get on the phone and, if he is considering it, turn him around, because we might need him this year.”
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