Queensland Coach Billy Slater’s Decision to Recall Reece Walsh
Queensland coach Billy Slater has remained tight-lipped about the reasons behind his decision to include Reece Walsh in the State of Origin squad for Game 2, despite the fullback being left out of the opening match. Walsh’s omission from the Game 1 squad was one of the most talked-about topics before and after the game, as fans and analysts speculated on the possible reasons.
Since returning from a cheekbone fracture sustained during NRL Round 9, Walsh has struggled to find consistency on the field. His performance in recent matches, including losses to the Dragons and Titans, has raised questions about his form. Despite this, he was not even considered for a bench role in the first game.
Walsh had the chance to prove himself in the last two weeks with the Brisbane Broncos, aiming to remind Slater of his exceptional talent. However, the Broncos have lost five consecutive games, and even Ezra Mam, who was dropped to the bench, struggled when he came on. This created an opportunity for Walsh to return to the Maroons’ squad for Game 2.
Slater explained that the selection panel believed it was best to bring Walsh back into the squad for a must-win game. “We just think it’s the best thing for the footy team,” Slater said when asked about the decision. “Obviously on the bench there. We all know what Reece is capable of doing, and now we have 10 days to go after our best footy.” However, he was unwilling to elaborate on what changed his mind regarding Walsh’s inclusion.
When questioned about what he had seen from Walsh in the last two games, Slater chose not to share details with the media. He reiterated that Queensland is “more than one person” and emphasized the importance of teamwork.
“I’ll keep that stuff in house… I’ve got a great relationship with Reece that goes back to when he debuted for the Warriors,” Slater said. “He’s built a really good game. If needed, I’m sure he’ll go out there and perform.”
Walsh has shown determination in recent weeks, trying to spark the Broncos’ attack. Slater is keen to help the fullback regain the form that earned him the title of the best fullback of 2025.
Changes for Origin Game 2
In addition to recalling Walsh, Slater has welcomed back Murray Taulagi to the bench for Queensland. Gehamat Shibasaki has been ruled out for several weeks and wasn’t available for selection. This allowed Slater to recall Taulagi, a former Queensland winger, to the bench. The coach expressed confidence in both Walsh and Taulagi, stating that they would thrive if called upon.
“If Murray is needed to go on the field, whether it’s the first or 60th minute, I don’t think he’d be overawed,” Slater said. “He knows what it takes to be a Queenslander, as does Reece. That’s a really important aspect of those positions because they are not easy to play. They are starting players for their club, but they’re different roles in this team. You don’t know where or if you will go on. You need the right headspace.”
One of the most significant changes made by Slater was promoting Sharks second-rower Briton Nikora to the starting side. Nikora played a few minutes off the bench in Game 1 but demonstrated his value with a try against the Dragons on the weekend. Slater has moved him into the starting line-up to add speed and mobility to the second-row.
