Billy Slater Shares Insights on Sam Walker’s Game Ahead of State of Origin
Billy Slater has shared his thoughts on the unique aspects of Sam Walker’s game as the young halfback prepares for his State of Origin debut. Walker will don the No.7 jersey for the Queensland Maroons in the series opener, following the injury to Tom Dearden, who was unable to play due to an ankle issue.
Walker, known for his creative flair and standout performances over his 96 games with the Sydney Roosters, is expected to bring a fresh energy to the team. Slater, who has had the opportunity to work closely with Walker ahead of the match, expressed confidence in the young player’s ability to succeed at this level.
“Sam is a very unique style of player,” Slater said during a media session on Tuesday. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised by his skill level. We all know he’s a very creative player, and that’s definitely enhanced my opinion of him.”
Slater also highlighted Walker’s maturity, noting that the 23-year-old appears to have the composure of a seasoned Origin player. “Probably just his temperament,” Slater added. “The way he’s handled everything, it’s like he’s been here for five or six years. Honestly, he’s been really impressive. He looks really confident.”
Slater emphasized the importance of helping players bring out their strengths while maintaining the team’s core values. “There are some things that are non-negotiable in this footy team,” he said. “It’s important that everyone acknowledges that and goes after that part of the game. When you have different players come into the team, they’ve got different strengths, and part of a coach’s job is to help bring those strengths out.”
Key Details for the State of Origin Series Opener
The 2026 State of Origin series kicks off on Wednesday, May 27 at Sydney’s Accor Stadium. The first game will be followed by matches on June 17 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and July 8 at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium.
All three games will start at 8:05pm AEST. Fans can watch the action live and free on Nine and 9Now.
How to Watch the 2026 State of Origin Series
The entire series will be broadcast live and exclusively on Nine and 9Now. Tickets for all three games are still available through Ticketmaster.
State of Origin 2026 Teams
NSW Blues:
1. James Tedesco
2. Brian To’o
3. Stephen Crichton
4. Kotoni Staggs
5. Tolu Koula
18. Ethan Strange
7. Nathan Cleary
8. Addin Fonua-Blake
9. Reece Robson
10. Mitchell Barnett
11. Hudson Young
12. Haumole Olakau’atu
13. Isaah Yeo
14. Cameron Murray
15. Victor Radley
16. Jacob Saifiti
17. Blayke Brailey
19. Casey McLean
21. Matt Burton
Reserve: Dylan Lucas
QLD Maroons:
1. Kalyn Ponga
2. Selwyn Cobbo
3. Robert Toia
4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
5. Jojo Fifita
6. Cameron Munster
7. Sam Walker
8. Thomas Flegler
9. Harry Grant
10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
11. Reuben Cotter
12. Kurt Capewell
13. Max Plath
14. Briton Nikora
15. Lindsay Collins
16. Patrick Carrigan
17. Trent Loiero
18. Ezra Mam
19. Gehamat Shibasaki
Reserve: Kulikefu Finefeuiaki
Weather Forecast for the First Match
The weather in Sydney is expected to be wet on Wednesday, with an 80% chance of rainfall between 1mm and 9mm. Temperatures are forecasted to range between 14°C and 20°C throughout the day.
Coaches for the 2026 State of Origin Series
Billy Slater will lead the Queensland Maroons, while Laurie Daley will coach the NSW Blues.
Betting Odds
For the opening game, NSW are the favorites at $1.65, with Queensland at $2.25. These odds remain the same for the entire series.
