Canberra Raiders back-rower Hudson Young is on the cusp of a breakthrough State of Origin debut, with experts tipping him to secure a starting role for the NSW Blues in the 2026 series. The 25-year-old has been a standout performer in the NRL this season, combining aggressive defence with dynamic ball-running to catch the eye of selectors.
Rising Star
Young's rise has been meteoric. After making his NRL debut in 2019, he has developed into one of the competition's most reliable edge forwards. His work rate and physicality have drawn comparisons to some of the game's greats, and his consistency has been a key factor in the Raiders' strong campaign.
What Experts Say
Former NSW greats believe Young has the attributes to thrive at Origin level. "He's got the aggression and footwork to trouble Queensland's defence," said one analyst. "His ability to offload in tackles and his defensive resilience make him a perfect fit for the Blues' game plan."
Young himself remains focused on the task at hand. "It's every kid's dream to play Origin," he said. "I'm just trying to do my job for the Raiders and let the rest take care of itself."
Path to Selection
With several incumbent Blues players facing injury concerns or form slumps, the door has opened for Young to stake his claim. His performances in big games have been particularly impressive, earning him plaudits from teammates and coaches alike.
NSW coach Brad Fittler is known for rewarding form, and Young's recent displays have made him almost impossible to ignore. If he maintains his current trajectory, a Blues jersey in 2026 looks inevitable.
For now, Young is focused on finishing the NRL season strongly with Canberra. But the prospect of representing his state is a powerful motivator.
