Billy’s talk ‘will give team a lift’

PANIC stations or a ‘rebuilding phase’? You be the judge.

Queensland has made the most changes between matches within a series in Maroons history but former Origin star Ashley Harrison says one absolutely makes sense.

The former Broncos, Rabbitohs and Titans backrower played 14 of his 15 matches alongside Billy Slater and said there was no doubt Innisfail’s favourite son would translate his outstanding club form to Queensland duty once again after reclaiming his place for a must-win Game 2.

But it’s what he does off the ball, rather than his silky skills, that could have the biggest impact for the Maroons at ANZ Stadium next Wednesday.

“We all know what Billy can do with the ball and he’s in great form at the moment,” Harrison said.

“What Billy brings is great communication. He’s always been a good talker and makes sure everyone else around him is talking and I’m really looking forward to seeing him back in there.”

Slater is one of seven changes from Game 1, the most Queensland has ever made from game-to-game during a series.

The previous record was six, first set in 1996 on Paul Vautin’s watch, then under Wayne Bennett in 2002, both for Game 2.

Harrison was one of four changes when he made his debut in Game 3, 2005 and for his second game in Game 2, 2008, but he said once the meet and greet was over and done with, it would be business as usual.

“To tell you the truth, once you get selected it’s all about getting into camp and preparing as best you can for the game,” he said.

“You don’t focus too much on what’s happening around you.

“You can look at it two ways, either as panic stations or a rebuilding phase

“Obviously it was going to happen for us at some stage and the reality is we’ve got to deal with it and the young guys have been through the emerging Origin camp so they know what to expect and I’m sure they will be able to do the job.”

Former Queensland prop Greg Dowling said he was surprised at the bold move to bring Slater back, but was excited to see Coen Hess make his debut.

“I’m surprised. I have nothing against (Slater) being there, but Boyd didn’t cost us the game,” he said.

Gordonvale’s Nate Myles had some question marks over an elbow injury but Queensland chairman of selectors Gene Miles said he was considered for selection.

He said the door was certainly not closed on the Southern Suburbs junior, who could force his way back into the side for Game 3.

Game 2, 2017 — 7 changes Game 2, 1996 — 6 changes