Hornby dumped
from Blues side

Dragons fullback Ben Hornby has been dumped from the New South Wales State of Origin side for the second game of the three match series, to be played in Brisbane next week.

Hornby has been replaced by Anthony Minichiello, who was dumped from the Blues side last month in the wake of the voicemail sex scandal.

Minichiello was originally named on the wing for the first match but will play in his regular position of fullback for next Wednesday?s match at Suncorp Stadium.

Controversial forward Willie Mason has maintained his position on the interchange bench while selectors still couldn?t find room for Panthers and Australian forward Joel Clinton.

As expected, Sydney Roosters five-eighth Brad Fittler has been named in the side after an SOS call from Blues coach Phil Gould yesterday.

Hooker Danny Buderus has, however, maintained the captaincy of the side.

Fittler will be paired in the halves with Brett Kimmorley, who replaces the injured Craig Gower.

The full side is: Anthony Minichiello, Timana Tahu, Matt Gidley, Luke Lewis, Luke Rooney, Brad Fittler, Brett Kimmorley, Jason Stevens, Danny Buderus, Mark O?Meley, Nathan Hindmarsh, Andrew Ryan, Craig Fitzgibbon. Bench: Willie Mason, Brent Kite, Trent Waterhouse, Craig Wing.

The 18th man is Matt Cooper.

The Queensland side for Game II will be named later today.