State of Origin hopeful Stephen Crichton sits out the first New South Wales training session after being hampered by an AC joint injury, according to multiple reports. The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and the Brisbane Times all say Crichton’s shoulder issue affects his availability for the opening training work leading into the match against Queensland. The reports indicate the injury will require treatment, including pain-killing needles, before he can play. While the outlets describe him as missing the session, they do not report any final decision on his overall match fitness. The injury is framed as a short-term obstacle in preparing for the Maroons, with the focus on whether he can be cleared in time for selection and match readiness. Across the sources, the key common points are that Crichton has an AC joint injury, that he does not take part in the first NSW training session, and that he is expected to need pain management to be considered for the upcoming Origin fixture.