• Maroons coach Slater hints Broncos fullback will be back

  • James Tedesco makes return to NSW Blues for game one

Sydney Roosters playmaker Sam Walker has been backed by Billy Slater to guide Queensland from halfback but Broncos fullback Reece Walsh has been left out of the squad for the State of Origin opener on 27 May in Sydney.

The omission of Walsh, below his best in recent weeks, will be a surprise to some but Newcastle talisman Kalyn Ponga has a wonderful pedigree in Origin football at No 1.

Aggregated headline — read the full story at theguardian.com. 18+ · Gamble responsibly · Responsible gambling.