The landscape of Queensland rugby league shifted significantly this week as coach Billy Slater unveiled his side for the State of Origin series opener in Sydney on 27 May. In a move that has sparked widespread debate, Brisbane Broncos fullback Reece Walsh has been left out of the Queensland squad in favour of Newcastle Knights talisman Kalyn Ponga. The decision to overlook Walsh, who has struggled to find his peak form in recent weeks, marks a pivotal tactical shift for the Maroons as they prepare for the challenge at Accor Stadium.
The exclusion of Walsh is perhaps the most headline-grabbing development, yet it reflects a desire from the Maroons’ coaching staff to lean on experience and proven pedigree at the highest level. Ponga, who has previously excelled in the maroon jersey, returns to the fullback role with the full confidence of a selection panel looking to secure an early advantage in the series. The decision to omit Walsh—a player synonymous with the high-octane attack of the Broncos—highlights the ruthless nature of Origin selection, where current form and strategic fit are often weighed against long-term potential.
For those following the build-up to the 2024 series, the Reece Walsh left out of new-look Queensland Origin squad in favour of Kalyn Ponga narrative serves as a reminder of the depth available to Slater. While Walsh has been a standout performer in recent seasons, his recent dip in consistency has opened the door for Ponga to reclaim the No 1 jersey. It is a calculated gamble, one that prioritizes the veteran composure Ponga brings to the fullback position during the intensity of a Sydney-based clash.
The Rise of Sam Walker and the New Guard
While the fullback position has dominated the headlines, the selection of Sam Walker at halfback represents a generational transition for Queensland. With last year’s series hero Tom Dearden sidelined due to a syndesmosis injury sustained while playing for the North Queensland Cowboys, the Maroons needed a new playmaker to steer the ship. Walker, the Sydney Roosters star, has been handed the No 7 jersey, a selection backed emphatically by Slater.
Darren Lockyer, a legend of the Queensland game, recently likened Walker to a modern-day Allan Langer, citing his natural unpredictability and ability to break a game open. Slater’s confidence in the young halfback is palpable. “We feel really confident about Sam Walker being the best option to play halfback,” Slater said. “I know how much he loves this state and I can imagine him in the backyard dreaming of playing for Queensland with the No.7 on his back. It gives me chills thinking about it.”
Joining Walker in the starting side are debutants Max Plath at lock and Jojo Fifita on the wing. The inclusion of these younger talents, balanced by the veteran presence of Cameron Munster and Harry Grant, suggests a team designed to blend youthful exuberance with the tactical discipline required to win in enemy territory. The Maroons have opted to retain 11 players from their successful 2023 campaign, providing a stable foundation around which the new faces can integrate.
NSW Responds with a New-Look Blues Squad
Across the border, New South Wales coach Laurie Daley has opted for a radical shake-up of his own, showing little regard for the status quo after last year’s series defeat. In a move that has surprised many observers, Daley has named James Tedesco as his fullback, opting for the Roosters captain’s attacking spark over the form of Dylan Edwards. Tedesco’s return to the side for his 24th appearance marks a clear intent from the Blues to play a more expansive, high-risk game.
Daley’s squad features six debutants, including Tolu Koula, Addin Fonua-Blake, and Victor Radley. The inclusion of Fonua-Blake and Radley follows recent changes to international eligibility rules, allowing players who have represented other nations to pull on the Blues jersey. This infusion of new talent, combined with the leadership of captain Isaah Yeo, suggests a shift in the Blues’ tactical approach as they attempt to break the Maroons’ recent dominance.
Strategic Implications for Game One
The tactical battle between the two sides will likely hinge on how the new combinations integrate under pressure. For Queensland, the return of Thomas Flegler is a significant boost. After a grueling 677-day journey back from a complex shoulder nerve issue, Flegler’s return to the front row is a story of resilience that adds a layer of emotional weight to the Maroons’ forward pack. His experience and uncompromising style will be vital in matching the physicality of a determined Blues side.
The following table outlines the key personnel changes for the opening match of the 2024 State of Origin series:
| Position | Queensland Selection | New South Wales Selection |
|---|---|---|
| Fullback | Kalyn Ponga | James Tedesco |
| Halfback | Sam Walker | Nathan Cleary |
| Hooker | Harry Grant | Reece Robson |
| Captain | Tino Fa’asuamaleaui | Isaah Yeo |
The absence of Latrell Mitchell from the NSW side, due to an ongoing back injury, leaves a void in the centres that the Blues will need to cover with a combination of Kotoni Staggs and Stephen Crichton. Meanwhile, Queensland’s bench, which includes Ezra Mam and Briton Nikora, provides Slater with the versatility to adjust his game plan as the match progresses in Sydney.
As the countdown to May 27 continues, the focus remains on whether these bold selection calls—specifically the omission of Walsh and the recall of Tedesco—will pay dividends. For fans and analysts alike, the unpredictability of these lineups adds an extra layer of intrigue to what is already the most anticipated event in the Australian sporting calendar. Official updates and squad movements can be monitored via the National Rugby League official portal as both states finalize their preparations for the series opener.
We invite our readers to join the conversation regarding these selection choices in the comments section below. How do you see the Maroons’ new-look spine performing in Sydney? Share your thoughts and join the discussion as we approach kick-off.
