Queensland coach Billy Slater has backed a more mature Reece Walsh to channel his emotions towards a Maroons victory in his first State of Origin match on enemy territory.

The 21-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting players in the NRL and proudly wears his heart on his sleeve when representing Queensland and the Broncos.

Walsh currently has a perfect winning record in State of Origin matches but is yet to experience the challenge of playing in front of 80,000 hostile NSW fans at Accor Stadium, with his only previous game at the venue coming in the 2023 Grand Final in front of a mixed Penrith and Brisbane crowd.

Slater has no qualms about the youngster’s ability to handle the rabid crowd on Wednesday and backed the fullback to play his natural game.

“I will just help him be him,” Slater said when asked how he’ll help Walsh prepare for Wednesday’s clash. “I’ll help him be as good as he can.

“Reece’s got a great want to be the best player he can be, sometimes that gets lost. He’s got a great work ethic, he’s really respectful, he loves his footy, he loves this colour and his state.

“Like 5.5 million Queenslanders, I’m looking forward to watching Reece Walsh play out there tomorrow night. He’s had a great week, he’s been a ball of energy and is looking forward to getting his game on.”

While the Marrons have enjoyed a settled preparation, the Blues have been forced to navigate multiple injury hiccups throughout their camp.

Halfback Nicho Hynes has carried a calf complaint during the week but looks set to line up on Wednesday night.

Dylan Edwards was not so fortunate and was denied the opportunity to make his NSW debut after picking up a quad injury on Saturday. The Panthers fullback has been replaced by former Blues skipper James Tedesco, who will line up in his 23rd-straight Origin match.

Slater conceded the late change has forced a rethink of the Maroons plans for tonight but remains confident his side is prepared for anything NSW throws at them.

Source –NRL.com