We love the mighty Canberra Raiders
Queensland veteran Josh Papalii has announced his immediate retirement from State of Origin football, less than two weeks before the 2023 series opener.
Papalii's call means coach Billy Slater must look anew at a bunch of other potential Queensland front-rowers ahead of the title defence, which begins at Adelaide Oval on May 31.
Canberra prop Papalii has been a Maroons stalwart, playing 23 Origin matches, more than any other active player, since his debut in 2013.
Queensland veteran Josh Papali'i has followed Raiders teammate Jack Wighton's lead and retired from State of Origin.
Papali'i, 31, told Queensland coach Billy Slater of his decision this week, only days before the teams are picked for the first match in Adelaide.
A 23-game cornerstone of the Maroons pack, Papali'i was considered a walk-up starter for Slater's opening team on the back of the Raiders' five-game winning run.
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,...
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.