BBC SPORT | Rugby League | Blues get Johns boost

Hodgson suffered a punctured lung in the early stages of the second game of the series but has also recovered in time to make the starting line-up.

NSW take opener

He underwent a short fitness test with Blues trainer Ronnie Palmer and came through it with flying colours.

"I had a few good hits and dived on a few loose balls," he said. "I can't wait to get out there on Wednesday."

Queensland also received positive injury news, with Brisbane forward Petero Civoniceva passed fit for the game.

The Fijian-born prop has not played since suffering medial ligament problem in the first game, but he passed a series of tests and is raring to go.

Trent Barrett
Barrett returns for NSW

"A decider is such a big game and being down in Sydney will make it even tougher," he said. "I'm just going to give it my best for as long as I can."

NSW have made four changes for the game at Stadium Australia in Sydney.

Queensland level series

Centre Matt Gidley, stand-off Trent Barrett and lock Steve Menzies are all added to the side beaten 26-18 in Brisbane in game two.

Test prop Jason Ryles also returns from suspension in place of injured Mark O'Meley, who has a broken jaw.

Ryles is well aware of the doubts concerning his ability to control his temper in such a highly-charged game.

"I know I can't give away dumb penalties," Ryles said. "And I can't afford to lose my temper.

"I just want to play the game as hard as I can, but as fair as I can."

Temper trouble

Despite the concerns over his temperament, the Maroons are more concerned about the damage he could do to their victory hopes.

"Ryles is a class player and, if anything, they gain having him there," said Queensland hooker PJ Marsh.

Maroons forward Andrew Gee, who could be playing in his final Origin series, added: "He's their best prop with daylight second, you'd have him in your front-row any day.

"But he does lose it a bit."

Queensland, who levelled the series at 1-1 with victory on 5 June, have recalled Newcastle utility back Robbie O'Davis to their side.

Brisbane centre Brent Tate will start on the bench while Justin Hodges, Chris Beattie and Chris Flannery have been dropped.

NSW: Hodgson; Tahu, Gidley, Timmins, Moodie; Barrett, Johns (capt); Ricketson, Menzies, Simpson, Ryles, Buderus, Bailey. Subs: Vella, Hindmarsh, Hill, Fletcher.

Queensland: Lockyer; Tuqiri, Walker, McKenna, O'Davis; Berrigan, Langer; Smith, Carlaw, Tallis, Civoniceva, Marsh, Webcke. Subs: Norton, Price, Gee, Tate.