Queensland Maroons recall Reece Walsh for State of Origin Game 2
Consensus Summary
Queensland coach Billy Slater has recalled Reece Walsh to the Maroons squad for State of Origin Game 2 after omitting him from the series opener, where Queensland lost 22-20 despite leading 20-0. Walsh, the Broncos superstar, will serve as the 18th man, with his playing role to be determined during the 10-day camp ahead of the must-win match at the MCG. His recall comes despite a form slump at club level, where the Broncos have lost five consecutive games since his return from injury. Slater emphasized Walsh’s potential impact off the bench, stating he is capable of performing when needed. The Maroons squad also includes standout players like Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Murray Taulagi, and Heilum Luki, while NSW coach Laurie Daley will name his team after the King’s Birthday clash on June 7. Queensland’s announcement was made at 9:00am AEST, with Slater holding a press conference shortly after. Walsh’s selection reflects Slater’s confidence in his ability to contribute in high-pressure situations, though his role remains uncertain.
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Key details reported by multiple sources:
- Reece Walsh was recalled to the Queensland Maroons squad for State of Origin Game 2 (2026) after missing Game 1 and the past four Maroons teams.
- Queensland coach Billy Slater named Walsh as the 18th man (20th player) in the Maroons squad for Game 2, with his role (bench or halves) to be decided during camp.
- Walsh was omitted from Game 1 in Sydney (2026) due to form issues, with Kalyn Ponga selected at fullback instead.
- Queensland lost the series opener in Sydney, surrendering a 20-0 lead to lose 22-20, making Game 2 a must-win for Queensland.
- Walsh’s club, the Broncos, have lost five consecutive games since his return from injury, including losses to the Dragons and Titans.
- Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Murray Taulagi, and Heilum Luki are also in the Maroons squad for Game 2.
- Queensland’s team announcement for Game 2 was set for 9:00am (AEST) on June 7, 2026, with a press conference at 9:30am.
- Walsh’s run metres this season (121) are below his 2025 average (148) and the lowest during his Broncos career.
Points of Difference
Details reported by only one source:
- Billy Slater’s Game 1 decision (omitting Walsh) was revisited as reports emerged of Walsh’s recall for Game 2.
- NSW coach Laurie Daley will reveal his team after the King’s Birthday clash between Canterbury and Parramatta on June 7, 2026, with Queensland not expecting player contributions from that game.
- Stephen Crichton (NSW Bulldogs centre) is struggling with a shoulder injury and was uncharacteristically poor in Game 1, prompting Queensland to monitor his performance closely.
- Ezra Mam and Gehamat Shibasaki were included on the Maroons bench for Game 1 ahead of Walsh, with Shibasaki now ruled out for the series due to a knee injury.
- Walsh’s fractured cheek earlier in the season contributed to his form dip and the Broncos’ recent struggles.
- Billy Slater stated, 'We think it’s the best thing for the footy team [if he is] on the bench there,' regarding Walsh’s role.
- Slater acknowledged Walsh’s form dip but kept the reasoning for his recall 'in house,' saying, 'I have a great relationship with Reece, and he’s built a really good game.'
- Kulikefu Finefeuiaki was described as a standout player for the Dolphins this season, with Slater praising his improvement in defence and consistency.
- Slater mentioned that Murray Taulagi and Heilum Luki are 'not easy to play' positions, requiring 'the right headspace' for Origin selection.
- The NSW Blues’ squad list was provided in full, including players like Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, and Kurt Capewell.
Contradictions
Conflicting information between sources:
- ABC states Walsh hasn’t played the final minutes of an Origin victory since the 2023 series opener, while the Guardian does not mention this specific detail.
- ABC implies Walsh’s recall is surprising given his 2025 season performance, while the Guardian frames it as a strategic bench option without emphasizing surprise.
Source Articles
Live: Walsh set for Origin recall as Maroons reveal Game II team
Queensland coach Billy Slater is naming his team for State of Origin II, with injuries forcing a reshuffle for the Maroons ahead of their must-win clash at the MCG. Follow live.
Out-of-form Reece Walsh recalled by Queensland for crucial State of Origin Game 2
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