Former NSW and Australian Test skipper Laurie Daley was hospitalised with pancreatitis.

Daley, an assistant coach with the NSW rugby league side, was taken to hospital after suffering acute stomach pain. He will remain there for the next few days.

He is hopeful of returning to the Blues camp ahead of Wednesday night's second State of Origin clash at Telstra Stadium.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach which produces insulin and helps in the digestive process.

Daley played 244 first grade games for the Canberra Raiders during a distinguished 14-year career.

He played in 23 Origin matches, captaining the Blues 13 times. He also played 34 Tests for the Kangaroos, and was skipper on six occasions.

He was a public figure in the great ARL/Super League war in 1995, with Daley a key signing for the breakaway group.

Pancreatitus is the same illness that ended the political career of Labor leader Mark Latham in January this year.

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