In a sign that will do little to downplay concerns over his fitness, NSW halfback Nicho Hynes failed to train in the Blues' maiden session under Michael Maguire.
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Wearing running shoes, Hynes, who is managing a calf issue, was a keen observer of the side's first hit-out at the Blue Mountains Grammar School.
The Cronulla No.7, who will partner Jarome Luai in the halves against Queensland in next week's State of Origin series opener in Sydney, stood with coaching staff as the Blues warmed up on Wednesday.
Media were asked to vacate Wednesday morning's session after 15 minutes, but Hynes did not warm up.
Hynes has insisted he will be ready to face the Maroons next week, a year on from his forgettable 12-minute debut in Origin I last year.
Blues staff believe the playmaker will be ready to hit the field on Thursday, but the halfback's calf is not Maguire's only injury concern.
Penrith second-rower Liam Martin was put through a specialised warm-up as he deals with a hamstring issue.
Nathan Cleary, who will miss the series with a hamstring injury of his own, was an observer of Wednesday's session, while injured South Sydney lock Cameron Murray (hip) visited the Blues' hotel.
If Hynes fails to make the start line, Maguire has Sydney Roosters playmaker Luke Keary and Canterbury five-eighth Matt Burton at his disposal.
"He (Hynes) did a little bit, a lot of watching," said Blues back-rower Angus Crichton.
"But we obviously back the physio staff with their plan with him, and if he's right he'll play.
"'Kez' (Keary) is a pro, he's been there in big games and grand finals, and I think he's really ready for it if the call comes for him.
"I think Nicho will be sweet, but if he's not I think Keary is a pretty handy replacement."
Australian Associated Press
