State of Origin 2026: Queensland Maroons predicted team for Game III decider in Brisbane

Queensland destroyed NSW in the second half of Game II in Melbourne and will head into the Suncorp Stadium decider on July 8 brimming with confidence.

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With everything to play for, the Maroons selectors are unlikely to make many unforced changes — if any — for Game III when their team is announced on Monday.

Is this the side to make it four Origin series wins in five years for Bill Slater’s men?

Queensland Maroons Predicted Squad: State of Origin Game III

1. Kalyn Ponga
2. Selwyn Cobbo
3. Robert Toia
4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
5. Jojo Fifita
6. Cameron Munster (c)
7. Sam Walker
8. Tom Flegler
9. Harry Grant
10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
11. Briton Nikora
12. Kurt Capewell 
13. Reuben Cotter

14. Max Plath
15. Lindsay Collins
16. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki
17. Trent Loiero
18. Reece Walsh/Tom Dearden
19. Murray Tualagi

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Billy Slater stuck with Kalyn Ponga despite his costly second-half send off in Game I and there’s no reason to change things now. That means Reece Walsh will likely again be on the reserves bench to provide backline cover if required. However, there’s an outside chance his spot could go to Tom Dearden, fitness permitting,so that’s something to watch.

Winger Jojo Fifita has been a revelation so far in the series and will rightly hold his place ahead of Murray Tualagi while Selwyn Cobbo played arguably his best game for the Maroons in Game II with a hat-trick of tries and a try assist.

Halfback Sam Walker continues to impress and is on track to be player of the series if he can continue his sublime form in Game III. Even if Tom Dearden is deemed fit there’s almost no chance Billy Slater will change his halves now.

In the forwards don’t expect any surprises. Pat Carrigan remains sidelined with an ankle injury and the only possible switch may see Tom Flegler come off the bench.

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