NRL legend Josh Papalii to make shock State of Origin return amid Super League move….
Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater is poised to recall veteran prop Josh Papalii for Game 3 of the 2025 State of Origin series on July 9 at Sydney’s Accor Stadium . The 33‑year‑old Canberra legend, who retired from rep footy in 2023, has been in red‑hot form, even scoring in his 300th NRL match . Slater is expected to start him for a 25‑minute burst alongside Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, with Papalii anticipated to replace Mo Fotuaika .
This selection is described as an “Alfie Langer‑style” call—an emotional, strategic play to inject grit, leadership, and aggressive forward momentum into the Maroons pack . Queensland legend Ben Hunt publicly backed the move, saying:
> “I would love to see big Paps out there… He is the ultimate warrior.”
Adding further intrigue, Papalii’s upcoming Super League move to St Helens in 2026 has been confirmed. He’s reportedly accepted a two‑year deal, choosing the Saints over rival NRL clubs after informing Canberra he won’t play against them . St Helens coach Paul Wellens acknowledged the talks but didn’t finalise details .
If officially named Monday, Papalii will cap off his representative career with a final shot at Origin glory before heading to the UK—a fitting send‑off for a loyal Raider and Maroons stalwart.
