Injured NSW playmaker Nathan Cleary will have a clearer picture about his chances of lining up for State of Origin III by the end of the weekend, according to his dad Ivan.

Nathan is in a race against the clock to be fit for the July 10 decider at ANZ Stadium after tearing a ligament in his ankle in the Blues’ game two victory.

Panthers coach Ivan said he was in the dark about his son’s prospects but they would have a better idea in the next three days as he desperately attempts to prove his fitness.

“We don’t know too much until the end of the weekend,” Ivan said.

Nathan completely tore his lateral ligament, an injury which was expected to keep him out for up to a month.

However, he dodged a bullet when he avoided a syndesmosis injury which would have required surgery.

“It was good news. Who knows when he’ll be able to play, but it’s only a shortish turn,” Ivan said.

Blues adviser and Panthers board member Greg Alexander earlier this week said Nathan shouldn’t be written off despite the likelihood he will be unable to train with the side for most of the 10-day camp.

If coach Brad Fittler does roll the dice, the best case scenario will see him train only a few days out from the match.

Cronulla back-rower Wade Graham has been touted as the leading contender to slot into the halves after he filled in the second half of the Blues’ 38-6 win in Perth.

But Graham’s versatility is invaluable off the bench and it would be a gamble to move him from the No.14.

Blues five-eighth James Maloney has thrown his support behind former teammate Mitchell Pearce being recalled.

The Blues name their team on Monday night.