Billy Slater said recalling veteran Josh Papali’i to the Maroons side had been in the back of his mind for a couple of years.
Having retired from representative footy in 2023, the Raiders enforcer was handed an Origin recall for the series decider in Sydney next week, replacing Mo Fotuaika in the squad.
Papali’i is reportedly closing in on a Super League deal for next year.
He’s made 23 appearances for the Maroons and scored three tries.
“It’s probably something I’ve had in the back of my mind for a couple of years now, in particular this year the way Big Papa has been playing for Canberra and the performances he’s putting in. He’s doing a great job there,” Slater told media on Monday morning.
“I thought this team could benefit from a bit of Josh Papali’i … I spoke to him a couple of days ago, and the response was pretty much where my head was at which was fantastic.
“He’s still got that fire to play for this footy team and represent the people of Queensland, and he’s got that fire to go out and do a good job for his state. I was pleased to hear that.”
Papali’i’s recall to the squad resembles that of Allan Langer’s stunning recall as Maroons halfback for the 2001 decider. He would have a hand in three of the Maroons’ first-half tries, and then scored his own mid-way through the second half as the Maroons won the series.
Slater believes Papali’i’ has a similar “aura” about him.
“He’s a real warrior, and has been for this footy team for a long time,” he said.
“What will give his teammates belief is Big Papa going out there and doing his job. That’s all he has to worry about. The rest will take care of itself. He’s been doing that for Canberra and they’re sitting on top of the ladder for a reason. Their whole team are doing a great job, but he’s doing his part.
“I thought he could add something to our footy team. That was purely the decision around it. I’ve never discarded it, never put a line through it. Although he’s retired I always thought he would love to come back for another game, and the opportunity has presented itself and I just feel it’s the right time.”
It caps off an emotional month for Papali’i. In round 14, he became the most-capped Raider in the club’s history when he ran out for his 319th game. He scored two tries and kicked a conversion.
Over the weekend, he and wife Mesepa welcomed their fourth child, a baby boy.
Slater said Papalii would not enter Maroons camp on Monday with his teammates, instead given a few extra days at home to “prioritise being a dad”.
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