Despite an injury to Tom Dearden, Billy Slater selected Sam Walker as halfback for the State of Origin. Walker's unpredictable play has been instrumental in Queensland's success, though his limitations were exposed when Cameron Munster was sidelined.
Queensland coach Billy Slater backed rookie Sam Walker at halfback despite Tom Dearden's injury. Walker, known for his chaotic style, impressed in Origin I and II, but a period without Cameron Munster in Game II highlighted his limitations, particularly in long kicking and team organization, reinforcing the established halves pairing.
Queensland's State of Origin coach Billy Slater opted not to use Reece Walsh as fullback despite an early head injury assessment for Cameron Munster. Selwyn Cobbo scored a hat-trick in the Maroons' dominant win over the Blues.
Queensland's Maroons overcame an early blunder by Tom Flegler and a head injury scare for Cameron Munster to defeat the NSW Blues in Game II of the State of Origin series. Selwyn Cobbo scored a hat-trick in the dominant performance.
Rugby league coaches Billy Slater and Laurie Daley have defended referee Ashley Klein after his gambling history was revealed. Klein confirmed he lost $400,000 on horses and greyhounds seven years ago but stated it did not influence his job.
NSW coach Laurie Daley has given Mitchell Moses a deadline to prove his fitness for State of Origin Game 2, naming him in the squad despite a hamstring injury. The Blues lead the series 1-0. Queensland coach Billy Slater recalls Reece Walsh to the Maroons squad.
Queensland coach Billy Slater anticipates no issues between Cameron Munster and Kalyn Ponga in camp despite their on-field melee, and justifies Reece Walsh's recall to the bench for State of Origin II amid the Broncos' losing streak.
Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater remains non-committal on Reece Walsh's potential State of Origin II recall after a narrow 22-20 loss to NSW, despite Walsh's omission from Origin I. The series' fate hangs in the balance ahead of game two in Melbourne.
NSW Blues recover from 20-0 deficit to beat Queensland 22-20 in State of Origin I, with Nathan Cleary scoring a try and kicking three goals, including the winner with a minute left.
Despite Reece Walsh's talent, Billy Slater omitted him from the 2025 State of Origin decider due to inconsistency and errors, opting for more stable players. Walsh's career has been marked by brilliant highs and concerning lows, making him a risky pick for crucial matches.
Despite Reece Walsh's past brilliance, Billy Slater opted against him for Origin Game III due to inconsistency and errors, favoring a more stable lineup. Walsh's form for the Broncos has been mixed, leading to his omission.
Billy Slater has backed Sam Walker to debut for Queensland at halfback, leaving Reece Walsh out of the State of Origin opener. Kalyn Ponga will start at fullback. NSW coach Laurie Daley has named six debutants, with James Tedesco reclaiming the fullback spot.
