State of Origin: Slater sends Big Papa an SOS for Origin decider

Queensland coach Billy Slater has recalled experienced prop Josh Papalii, who comes out of representative retirement for the Game Three decider.

The Canberra enforcer last played Origin in 2022 and is set to start for his 24th Origin match in Sydney.

In another selection shock, Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki has earned his first Maroons jersey following his strong form in the NRL.

Earlier this year, Shibasaki started the season on a train-and-replace deal before being upgraded into Brisbane's top squad after forcing his way into the starting side.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow has been named at fullback for the first time in his Origin career to replace the injured Kalyn Ponga.

Other new faces see Reece Walsh, J’maine Hopgood and Josh Kerr named in the Maroons’ extended squad for the first time in the 2025 series.

Queensland Maroons Game Three squad

1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (The Dolphins)

2. Xavier Coates (Melbourne Storm)

3. Robert Toia (Sydney Roosters)

4. Gehamat Shibasaki (Brisbane Broncos)

5. Valentine Holmes (St George Illawarra Dragons)

6. Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm – captain)

7. Tom Dearden (North Queensland Cowboys)

8. Josh Papalii (Canberra Raiders)

9. Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm)

10. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans)

11. Reuben Cotter (North Queensland Cowboys)

12. Kurt Capewell (New Zealand Warriors)

13. Trent Loiero (Melbourne Storm)

14. Kurt Mann (Canterbury Bulldogs)

15. Lindsay Collins (Sydney Roosters)

16. Pat Carrigan (Brisbane Broncos)

17. Jeremiah Nanai (North Queensland Cowboys)

18. Reece Walsh (Brisbane Broncos)

19. J’maine Hopgood (Parramatta Eels)

20. Josh Kerr (The Dolphins)

Coach: Billy Slater

Game III will be played at 10pm next Wednesday at Accor Stadium, Sydney.

[Source: nrl.com]