Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Queensland coach Billy Slater has unveiled a bold Maroons squad for Game One of the 2026 State of Origin series, making several major selection calls ahead of the clash with New South Wales at Accor Stadium on May 27. Kalyn Ponga won the battle for the fullback jersey over Reece Walsh, Sam Walker earned his long awaited Origin debut and several fresh faces were rewarded for outstanding club form. The squad announcement has created clear winners and losers as Queensland prepares to defend the Origin shield once again.
Slater’s selections highlight his willingness to back form, versatility and experience as the Maroons begin another campaign.
Kalyn Ponga Wins Fullback Battle
The biggest selection decision came at fullback where Slater overlooked Brisbane star Reece Walsh in favour of Newcastle captain Kalyn Ponga.
Both players entered contention in strong form, but Slater ultimately backed Ponga’s experience and current performances with the Knights.
“He has been in exceptional form,” Slater said.
“I feel Kalyn’s best position is fullback.”
After an injury interrupted start to the NRL season, Ponga has rediscovered his best football in recent weeks and once again established himself as one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking players.
His Origin record also worked heavily in his favour during selection discussions.
The decision means Walsh misses Game One entirely despite remaining one of the NRL’s premier attacking stars.
Sam Walker Finally Earns Origin Debut
With Tom Dearden ruled out through a serious ankle injury, Slater faced a difficult decision in the halves.
The Queensland coach eventually selected Sydney Roosters playmaker Sam Walker to partner Cameron Munster, giving the young halfback his first State of Origin opportunity.
Walker beat out experienced options including Daly Cherry Evans and Cowboys halfback Jake Clifford.
Slater explained that Queensland carefully considered every option before settling on Walker.
“We really feel confident about Sam Walker being the best option,” Slater said.
Walker has impressed throughout the season alongside Cherry Evans and Reece Robson at the Roosters, showing greater control and maturity in his game.
Slater also praised Walker’s passion for representing Queensland and his ability to unlock attacking opportunities around him.
Max Plath’s Stunning Rise Continues
One of the most popular selections was Dolphins utility Max Plath, who completed a remarkable rise to Origin football.
Plath spent the 2023 season playing Queensland Cup before establishing himself as a regular NRL player. His breakout 2025 campaign was interrupted by a serious ACL injury, but he returned ahead of schedule and quickly regained his place at the Dolphins.
The versatile forward can play hooker, lock, second row and even in the halves, making him a valuable bench option for Slater.
Former Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson described Plath as “special” after another standout performance recently.
Johnson praised the quality of Plath’s service from dummy half and his ability to improve the players around him.
“He makes the job easier for halves,” Johnson said on Fox League.
Plath’s toughness through the middle and versatility across multiple positions were key reasons behind his selection.
Tom Flegler Completes Remarkable Comeback
Queensland prop Tom Flegler also emerged as one of the major success stories of the squad announcement.
After suffering a serious shoulder injury in 2024 that required nerve transfer surgery, there were fears Flegler might never play rugby league again.
However, the 26 year old fought through a lengthy recovery and returned to the field earlier this season.
His determination and consistent performances for the Dolphins earned him a recall to the Maroons squad nearly three years after his last Origin appearance.
Flegler has averaged 95 running metres per game this season while maintaining excellent defensive efficiency.
“It has been a long time coming,” Flegler said earlier this year after returning from injury.
Broncos Receive Surprise Boost
While Queensland selection often weakens the Brisbane Broncos during the Origin period, this year’s squad announcement delivered an unexpected positive for the club.
Although Pat Carrigan, Ezra Mam and Gehamat Shibasaki were selected, Brisbane retains Walsh for Game One after his omission from the Maroons squad.
Given the Broncos’ injury concerns throughout the season, Walsh’s availability provides a major boost as the club attempts to rebuild momentum in the premiership race.
The Broncos face important matches against the Dragons and Titans following their upcoming bye and will benefit significantly from keeping their star fullback available.
Jojo Fifita Earns Origin Opportunity
Gold Coast Titans winger Jojo Fifita also celebrated a breakthrough selection after impressing Slater throughout the season.
Fifita was previously invited into a Queensland camp to experience the Origin environment and now receives his first opportunity at interstate level.
The 23 year old replaces injured winger Xavier Coates after building a reputation for his athleticism and physicality.
Slater said Fifita’s development away from the ball had been particularly impressive.
“He is a big strong athletic young man,” Slater explained.
“Over the last period he has really developed his game.”
Reece Walsh Headlines Queensland Losers
The most surprising omission from the squad was undoubtedly Walsh.
Many expected the Brisbane fullback to either start or at least secure a bench role given his explosive attacking ability and strong performances on the biggest stage.
Fox League analysts Michael Ennis, Shaun Johnson and Luke Keary all expressed surprise at the decision.
Keary described Walsh as “hands down the best fullback” in the NRL, while Ennis suggested the omission may act as motivation for the Broncos superstar.
Walsh produced another mixed performance against the Warriors on Sunday, creating three line break assists but also making several costly errors.
Ultimately, Slater decided Ponga’s form and experience made him the safer option for Game One.
Cherry Evans Misses Out Despite Strong Form
Veteran halfback Daly Cherry Evans was another notable omission after returning to strong form with the Sydney Roosters this season.
The experienced playmaker had emerged as a possible recall option after helping guide the Roosters into the top four.
However, Slater instead backed Walker to provide fresh energy in the halves alongside Munster.
Cowboys forward Heilum Luki and winger Murray Taulagi were also unlucky to miss selection despite strong club performances this year.
Queensland will now begin preparations for Game One as Slater attempts to guide the Maroons to another successful Origin campaign.