Ignore Timmins at your peril
Queensland: Daley and Barrett

Former New South Wales five-eighths Laurie Daley and Trent Barrett have warned Queensland to ignore the attacking skills of the Blues' latest number six at their own peril.

St George Illawarra's Shaun Timmins was a surprise selection to play five eighth for New South Wales in the opening State of Origin game in Brisbane next Wednesday, taking over from injured teammate Barrett.

Blues coach Phil Gould revealed the selectors had opted for Timmins ahead of Braith Anasta with his defensive strength in mind. But Daley and Barrett - who had his season prematurely ended by an ankle injury - say Timmins also has the attacking nous to make a good fist of his new position.

They say it'd be dangerous for Queensland to underestimate Timmins.