Gagai, Cobbo return for Maroons ahead of home Origin decider

Jarred Cross Published July 8, 2024 at 11.00am (AWST)

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Dane Gagai has earned his first origin selection since 2022, with Selywn Cobbo recalled after being rested for game two of this year's series. (Images: AAP)

Dane Gagai and Selwyn Cobbo have been selected as huge returns for Queensland in next Wednesday's Origin home decider in Brisbane after Billy Slater named his side.

Cobbo returns to the wing after a shock omission from the game two side following a strong performance amid conversations around his role off the bench as cover for Reece Walsh's early concussion in game one, while Gagai earns his first start since the Maroons' game three triumph in 2022 in the centres.

The pair come in to replace injured duo Murray Tualagi and Xavier Coates.

"We are fortunate to have the luxury of those guys to bring into the footy team," Slater said on Monday morning.

Gagai works into the starting side after inclusion in Queensland's extended squad for game two in Melbourne and scoring a double in his Knights' 16-12 win over the Raiders on Sunday.

"We all know what Dane Gagai brings. We all know how important this footy team is to Dane Gagai. He's played more than 20 Origins. He's a very passionate Queenslander and he's playing wonderful footy at the moment," Slater said.

"So he wasn't just here just for the sake of being here last camp. He was here for a reason."

The Veteran has made 22 appearances for 12 tries and played in five winning series for the Maroons between 2015 and 2022.

The pairing join Gagai's clubland captain Kalyn Ponga - who was named on the bench.

The Māori star and reigning Dally M medallist is a quick inclusion on return from injury.

In the forward pack, Slater has said Titans star David Fifita was a strong chance to replace outgoing second row Jaydn Su'A.

"Dave was a serious consideration, but we feel that the 17 players that have been chosen are the 17 players that have earned the opportunity to be here. All Queenslanders are considered, and Dave's a name that has been in the conversation for all games," Slater said.

Reece Walsh holds his spot at fullback, with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow in the centre and Reuben Cotter in the front row.

Named Queensland side for Origin III

1. Reece Walsh

2. Selwyn Cobbo

3. Dane Gagai

4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

5. Valentine Holmes

6. Tom Dearden

7. Daly Cherry-Evans (c)

8. Reuben Cotter

9. Ben Hunt

10. Lindsay Collins