Queensland coach Billy Slater has brought Reece Walsh back into the Maroons squad for next week’s decisive State of Origin Game 2, though his exact role in Melbourne is still unclear. Walsh, who missed Game 1 in Sydney, was added as the 18th man on Monday. Slater will decide over the next 10 days whether he plays from the bench or in another position. Slater said the move was best for the team and praised Walsh’s ability and relationship with the squad. He left open the possibility of Walsh featuring in the halves. Walsh will not be released to play for Brisbane this weekend. The Broncos have lost five straight matches, including recent defeats to the Dragons and Titans. Slater noted Walsh’s current form struggles at club level but kept the reasons for his recall private. Walsh joins Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Murray Taulagi and Heilum Luki in camp as Queensland aims to level the series at the MCG after a narrow loss in the opener. Slater also spoke positively about Finefeuiaki’s strong season with the Dolphins and his defensive improvements. The NSW team will be named later on Monday. The Queensland squad includes Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita, Cameron Munster, Sam Walker, Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter, Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero, Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi and Heilum Luki.
