Slater back for Storm

BILLY Slater is on track to answer Queensland’s Origin SOS with the veteran fullback named to make his return from a hamstring injury in Melbourne’s clash with Newcastle.

Maroons coach Kevin Walters has been sweating on Slater’s fitness after the 34-yearold had pulled out just days ahead of Queensland’s 22-12 Origin series-opening loss in Melbourne.

Maroons selectors will hope they can run the rule over Slater on Sunday as they look to save the series in Origin II in Sydney on June 24.

Slater is desperate to add to his 29 Origin tally, having announced he will retire from representative football after the 2018 series.

Slater will line up on Sunday against the player many believe will be the next longterm Maroons No.1 – the Knights’ Kalyn Ponga.