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.
"For me, it's about giving the next generation of Queensland players the chance to represent and it also allows me to concentrate on my football for the Raiders during the middle part of the season."
"I want to thank all of the coaches over the years that have given me the opportunity to play for Queensland and all of the players who I have taken the field with."
Papali'i played in six winning series for the Maroons, including Slater's maiden triumph as coach last year, and retires as one of the state's most-capped forwards.
“I was fortunate to feel both the presence Papa gave as a teammate and the confidence he gave me as a coach,” Slater said.
“Josh’s commitment and performance in his last Origin game typified his career in Maroon – heart, selfless and committed to his team … a warrior of the Origin arena.”
Despite calling time on his Origin career, Papali'i is expected to still make himself available to play international football for Samoa.
Papali'i is the second Canberra player in recent weeks to announce his Origin retirement, after Jack Wighton withdrew from selection last month.
"Josh's decision to retire from State of Origin showcases Josh's character and his selflessness for his state," said Raiders coach Ricky Stuart.
"Playing one State of Origin match is a huge achievement, but to play over 20 Origin matches over a decade makes Josh one of the most experienced and decorated players in Origin history.
"His efforts for Queensland, playing in the toughest arena in the toughest position, will forever be remembered and Josh will go down as one of Origin's greatest players.
"The fact that he's made this decision at a period of his career where he would still be able to compete at this level is testament to Josh's character and humility and I think it highlights just how much Origin has meant to him over his career."
