Walsh, Tabuai-Fidow or Ponga For Queensland Maroons Number 1 Jersey?

With State of Origin fast approaching, James Graham, Connor Watson and Maroons legend Greg Inglis discussed who could start at fullback for the reigning champions.

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Incumbent custodian Kalyn Ponga’s availability is still in doubt after the Newcastle Knights star has taken time out of the game to recover from repeated concussions.

Yet, the 25 year-old has proven a pivotal figure for his state, as he was man of the match in the deciding game last season.

If he had to select someone else, coach Billy Slater has a tough decision to make ahead of Game 1 and the boys on Footy Talk tried to provide a solution, Reece Walsh or Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow?

‘You’d put Walsh there wouldn’t you? The way he’s been playing,’ said Inglis.

‘The Hammer has undeniable freakish talent.

‘[Though] You could pick either/or if Ponga’s out.

Though if Ponga were to prove himself ahead of the series, James Graham asked Inglis if he’d keep the Newcastle star at fullback even though he’s been playing five-eighth for the Knights.

Which GI agreed, ‘I’d keep Ponga there, leave him at 1.

‘Though if he’s not, I’m picking Walsh.

‘I’m picking Walsh because of his ball-playing skills and his kicking ability out the back.

‘Hammer’s just starting to get that craft into him.’

Though Graham offered a counterpoint in defence of Tabuai-Fidow.

‘If you look defensively, on the line, who’s more likely to save a try?

‘I’m thinking the Hammer just for that.

‘Looking at Queensland and the make up of their squad, I don’t think they need Walsh’s attacking ability.

‘If you watch the Brisbane Broncos, [Walsh] hasn’t been asked many questions because of how much they’ve been dominating.

‘Hammer has.

‘Even if Ponga were available, I’d still have Hammer at number 1.’

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