Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Reece Walsh says he understands why he was overlooked for Queensland's State of Origin opener, admitting his performances this season have not reached the standards required for Maroons selection. The Brisbane fullback missed out on selection for Origin I in Sydney as Queensland opted for Kalyn Ponga at fullback. Walsh's comments come as Queensland prepares for the remainder of the series following a narrow opening defeat to New South Wales.
Walsh was one of the biggest omissions from Queensland's squad for the series opener, with selectors choosing not to include him either in the starting side or among the interchange options.
Instead, Brisbane teammates Ezra Mam and Gehamat Shibasaki were selected ahead of the 23 year old.
Walsh accepts selectors' decision
Speaking after the omission, Walsh admitted his current form had not justified selection.
"I know the standards it takes to play for Queensland and I'm honest with myself. I probably haven't been living up to those standards," Walsh said.
"That's what makes it so great. Once you put that jersey on, you know what it takes to get back there."
Walsh made clear he is focused on improving rather than questioning selectors.
"I'm a realist and I understand I haven't been upholding those standards, but it's about putting in the hard work at training and relaying that back onto the field."
"If I keep working hard in those areas I'm sure the opportunity will come again."
His comments reflect a player aware of both the expectations attached to Queensland representation and the work required to regain his place.
Queensland suffer narrow Origin defeat
Queensland's decision to select Kalyn Ponga initially appeared justified during Origin I, with the Newcastle star producing a solid performance.
However, the contest shifted dramatically after Ponga was sent off late in the match for a shoulder charge on New South Wales winger Tolu Koula.
The Blues capitalised on the numerical advantage, scoring 16 unanswered points to secure a 22 to 20 victory.
The loss leaves Queensland needing a response in the remaining matches if they are to reclaim the series.
Changes are expected ahead of Origin II, particularly after Gehamat Shibasaki suffered a knee injury that ruled him out for the remainder of the series.
Broncos form remains Walsh priority
Despite renewed speculation around possible selection opportunities, Walsh said his attention remains on club football.
"It'd be nice to be in that arena and be amongst the Queenslanders again," Walsh said.
"But my full focus right now is playing good footy for the Broncos and working really hard here in this building. Whatever comes, comes."
Walsh also acknowledged that selection decisions remain outside his control.
"I feel like I'm working hard on my standards and the areas I need to improve in. I'm not a selector and I'm not the one who makes the call, so that's up to them."
Statistics show decline from previous season
Walsh's attacking production has dropped compared with last season when he played a major role in Brisbane's premiership campaign.
He is averaging 121 running metres per game, down significantly from last season's average of 148 metres.
The fullback also missed part of the year after suffering a fractured cheek, disrupting momentum during the early part of the campaign.
Since returning from injury, Brisbane has struggled for results.
The Broncos have lost all four matches with Walsh back in the side, including last weekend's 30 to 26 defeat against St George Illawarra.
That result left the defending premiers sitting 11th on the ladder and under pressure to improve quickly.
Origin hopes still alive
Although Walsh missed selection for the opening game, injuries and form fluctuations mean his State of Origin hopes remain alive.
Queensland selectors now face important decisions before the next match as they attempt to recover from the opening loss.
For Walsh, the immediate challenge is rediscovering the form that made him one of the competition's most dangerous attacking players.
Strong performances for Brisbane may yet bring another opportunity to return to the Maroons setup later in the series.