Queensland rugby league stalwart Josh Papali'i has dropped a bombshell on the Maroons, with the veteran prop announcing his retirement from State of Origin football.
With just days until coach Billy Slater names his side for the series opener in Adelaide on May 31, Papali'i has opted to withdraw from selection, at age 31.
The Canberra prop has been a mainstay for Queensland for almost a decade, playing 23 matches for his state since his debut in 2013.
"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," Papali'i said.