Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Cameron Smith has sparked debate ahead of the State of Origin opener after leaving Reece Walsh out of his predicted Queensland Maroons side, instead backing Kalyn Ponga to wear the No.1 jersey. The call came as Queensland Rugby League confirmed former Maroons player Ben Te’o has been appointed as Billy Slater’s new assistant coach ahead of the 2026 Origin series.
The developments, confirmed on May 12, 2026, have added fresh intrigue to Queensland’s team selection discussions, with multiple big name contenders in key spine positions and a new figure joining the coaching staff just days before camp begins.
Smith backs Ponga over Walsh in fullback battle
Speaking on 100% Footy, Cameron Smith said he had opted for Kalyn Ponga at fullback based on recent form following injury, overlooking Brisbane star Reece Walsh despite his standout 2025 season.
“The contentious positions were halfback and fullback and I’ve gone for KP,” Smith said.
“The form that KP’s shown in the past fortnight since coming back from that hamstring injury, I think he’s gotta be there.”
The decision immediately drew reaction from former NSW coach Phil Gould, who expressed surprise at Walsh missing from Smith’s lineup.
“When the grand final was over last year, I couldn’t imagine a time where anyone would say Reece Walsh wouldn’t be the fullback,” Gould said.
“He produced single-handedly the greatest individual performance I’ve ever seen in a grand final last year and he’s got that big match presence.”
Gould added that both Ponga and Walsh represent elite options for Queensland.
“The other bloke is a superstar too. They’ve got an embarrassment of riches.”
Smith’s predicted Maroons team takes shape
Smith’s predicted Queensland side featured several established Origin players across the spine and forward pack, including Cameron Munster at five eighth, Sam Walker at halfback, Harry Grant at hooker and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui in the forward pack.
The squad also included emerging talents such as Robert Toia, Kurt Mann and Max Plath, reflecting Queensland’s ongoing blend of youth and experience.
Selection discussions are expected to intensify in the coming days as Billy Slater finalises his Game One squad.
Ben Te’o appointed Queensland assistant coach
In a major off field move, Queensland Rugby League confirmed Ben Te’o as the Maroons’ new assistant coach, reuniting him with Slater ahead of the Origin series.
Te’o, who played seven Origins for Queensland between 2012 and 2014, returns to the setup after previously coaching at junior and Hostplus Cup level, including work with the Redcliffe Colts and Queensland Under 19s.
“Anytime you come into a Queensland set up, it’s what can you do for the team,” Te’o said.
“It was a really big part of my journey as a coach and something I am so grateful to have done.”
Te’o’s appointment follows his departure from an assistant coaching role at the Brisbane Broncos earlier this year. His move is expected to strengthen Queensland’s defensive structures, an area he has specialised in throughout his coaching development.
Billy Slater welcomed the addition of his former teammate to the staff.
“Ben is a proud Queenslander,” Slater said.
“He’s lived it as a player and he has a true passion to coach. I’m really excited to have him involved.”
Selection pressure builds ahead of Origin opener
Queensland’s coaching and selection decisions come amid growing competition for spots in several key positions, particularly fullback, halfback and bench utility roles.
With both Ponga and Walsh in strong contention, Slater faces one of his most challenging selection calls since taking over as Maroons coach.
Te’o is expected to join Queensland camp next week as preparations ramp up for the series opener, where the Maroons will aim to continue their recent dominance in Origin football.
The final squad announcement is expected in the coming days as Queensland finalises combinations and game plans.