Newcastle youngster Jarrod Mullen admits he was stunned to be named at halfback for NSW in next week's opening State of Origin clash.

Mullen, 20, was one of five rookies named by NSW selectors and despite constant media speculation he would be included in the squad says he was still shocked by the call-up.

The young Knight beat Cronulla's Brett Kimmorley, Penrith's Craig Gower and Manly pair Matt Orford and Michael Monaghan to the position.

"I honestly thought selectors weren't interested," Mullen said.

"There's been a lot of talk over the last few weeks but I've been ignoring it to focus on my job with the Knights.

"Since Joey (Andrew Johns) retired we've been busy planning for the future and there's a lot of experienced halfbacks running around that I thought would be picked ahead of me.

"This is a dream come true. It's the reason young blokes play football."

Mullen was one of four Knights named in the NSW side alongside fellow rookie Kurt Gidley and experienced pair Steve Simpson and captain Danny Buderus.

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