Queensland Maroons Finalise Squad for State of Origin Decider

Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater has made the final selections for the crucial State of Origin Game III set to take place at Suncorp Stadium.

Among the notable inclusions are Kalyn Ponga and Dane Gagai, adding experience and skill to the Maroons’ roster for the decisive clash on July 17.

Gagai, who narrowly missed out in Game II as 18th man, returns to the starting lineup at centre after his last appearance in the 2022 series decider alongside Knights star Ponga.

Selwyn Cobbo and Valentine Holmes step in on the wings due to the absence of injured players Xavier Coates and Murray Taulagi.

Trent Loiero is named as the team’s 18th man, with Brendan Piakura and Reed Mahoney also part of the extended Queensland squad.

Ben Hunt marks his 20th game for Queensland in this crucial fixture, earning recognition with the FOGS Dick ‘Tosser’ Turner Medal.

On the other hand, despite scrutiny surrounding the omission of David Fifita, Queensland’s line-up under Slater’s guidance remains determined to put on a strong performance for the series decider.