Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020

Reece Walsh State of Origin snub remains one of the biggest stories in rugby league this week after the Brisbane Broncos star admitted he had not reached the level required for Queensland selection. The 23-year-old was overlooked for the Maroons' squad for Game 1 of the 2026 State of Origin series, with Kalyn Ponga preferred at fullback. Speaking ahead of Brisbane's clash with the Gold Coast Titans, Walsh accepted the selectors' decision and said his recent performances had fallen below the standards expected of a Queensland representative.

Walsh Delivers Honest Assessment

While many players might have questioned the decision, Walsh chose a different approach. The Broncos fullback openly admitted he had not performed well enough to force his way into the squad.

“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.

“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.”

The comments highlight Walsh's determination to earn another chance after representing Queensland five times during his career.

Opportunity Against Titans

Saturday night's match against Gold Coast presents an important opportunity for Walsh to remind selectors of his abilities.

The Broncos have lost four consecutive matches and desperately need a strong performance to revive their season. Last year, Walsh produced one of his best games against the Titans, helping launch a late-season run that ultimately carried Brisbane toward premiership contention.

The crowd at Suncorp Stadium will be watching closely to see whether the explosive fullback can rediscover the attacking spark that made him one of the NRL's most dangerous players.

“It’d be nice to be in that arena and be amongst the Queenslanders again, 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 said.

“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.”

Numbers Show a Challenging Season

Statistics show Walsh has not matched the production levels he achieved during his outstanding 2025 campaign.

He is averaging 121 running metres per game, well below the 148 metres he recorded last season. His try-assist numbers have also dropped compared with last year when he regularly created opportunities for Brisbane's outside backs.

Part of that decline may be linked to the fractured cheekbone that sidelined him for four weeks earlier in the season. Since returning, the Broncos have struggled to find consistency and are still searching for momentum.

“I wouldn’t say it’s a confidence issue. I go out there with a blueprint for how I play footy,” Walsh said.

“It was sore at times, but I’ve had the injury before and I understand it and can push through it.”

Supporting Mental Health Awareness

Brisbane will wear its black Mental Health Round jersey against the Titans, a cause that Walsh believes carries an important message.

“I think it’s a conversation starter for people out there who might be going through something,” he said.

“Whether that be on the field, off it, on a construction site or at school for young kids, it’s really important that we spread awareness and the message that it’s OK to be vulnerable and talk to your mate.”

As Walsh works toward regaining his place in the Queensland side, his immediate focus remains helping Brisbane return to winning form and proving he can once again perform at the level required for State of Origin football.

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