Maroons veteran Josh Papalii has dropped a bombshell on Queensland coach Billy Slater on the eve of State of Origin by announcing his retirement from the representative side.
Papalii has been a mainstay for the Maroons since debuting in 2013 but was no certainty to get pick this year with a host of front-row contenders and Christian Welch returning from injury.
The 31-year-old played 23 games for his state and won the 2018 Peter Jackson memorial award — presented to a player or staff member who optimises the Queensland Origin spirit.
“I’ve loved every minute of my time playing for Queensland and representing the state and I have memories from my time in maroon I will never forget,” Papalii said.
MORE TO COME.
