Billy Slater will front the media shortly, but he stopped by to speak with Nine’s Today before the official press conference.
He revealed how the returns of Cowboys back-rower and more surprisingly, Broncos forward Patrick Carrigan came to fruition.
“Jeremiah Nanai comes back into the team, he’s played 11 games in his Origin career and is a really experienced player, so it’s good to see him get back on the field in the last couple of weeks,” the Queensland coach said.
“It was good to see Jeremiah back playing well … but I didn’t learn anything on the weekend that I didn’t already know about Jeremiah.
“I know what he brings to a footy team and what he’s brought to this Maroons team in the past and I just think he can add a fair bit of value.
“Pat Carrigan also comes back from injury – our Queensland medical staff are in constant contact with all the clubs, seeing where the health of our players sit.
Patrick Carrigan suffered an ankle injury in round 13. NRL Imagery
“Pat is as professional as any player in the NRL – he leaves no stone unturned in his preparation, whether he’s fit or not. Coming back from this injury, Patty excelled in his preparation and rehab and he was actually looking to play for the Broncos this coming weekend and that made him available.
“He’s still got to get through some fitness stuff prior to the game, but he looks all set to go and it’s good to have him back on deck.”
