The waiting game for NSW's 18th man Luke Lewis continues after injured centre Mark Gasnier kept everyone guessing in the countdown to Wednesday night's must-win Origin II clash at Sydney.

The injury cloud over Gasnier had a silver lining when the exciting three-quarter stepped up training by completing a fitness and weights session.

But he failed to finish afternoon training, keeping the door ajar for Penrith utility Lewis who was placed on standby last Friday when Gasnier initially suffered a groin strain.

While a NSW official said Gasnier was "progressing well" and would be given until the last minute, Blues coach Ricky Stuart hinted the matchwinner must complete Tuesday's session to prove his fitness.

It adds to what has been an ultimately frustrating 2005 representative run for Lewis.

The 21-year-old was initially told he had been named as the Australian 18th man for April's Test against New Zealand, only for the spot to go to Penrith teammate Trent Waterhouse.

Lewis was named Australian 18th man again when Waterhouse slotted into the Test side for injured prop Jason Ryles.

His resume also includes a 2003 Kangaroo tour, but he didn't play a solitary Test.

Lewis - who played all three Origin for NSW last year - will slot onto the Blues wing if Gasnier is ruled out, with Matt King moving to the centres with Matt Cooper.

Injury has hampered the Blues' preparation since halfback Trent Barrett ruled himself out last Thursday with a quadriceps strain that could sideline him for two weeks.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP