Slater named for Origin decider
QUEENSLAND selectors have given injured full-back Billy Slater the chance to prove his fitness for next week's State of Origin III at Lang Park.
Slater sustained a posterior cruciate ligament injury in Origin II earlier this month and despite still being a long shot to be available for the series decider, he has been named in an extended 20-man Maroons squad.
North Queensland full-back Matt Bowen has been named in the squad as cover for Slater, ahead of Canterbury livewire Ben Barba.
Maroons coach Mal Meninga says it is touch and go whether Slater will start in Origin III.
"At this stage we're hopeful, but uncertain," he said.
Read a full report at abc.net.au
Maroons Squad: Cameron Smith (captain), Matt Bowen, Darius Boyd, Petero Civoniceva, Cooper Cronk, Matt Gillett, Ben Hannant, Justin Hodges, Greg Inglis, Nate Miles, Dane Nielsen, Corey Parker, Matt Scott, David Shillington, Billy Slater, Brent Tate, Dave Taylor, Ben Te'o, Sam Thaiday, Johnathan Thurston (three to be omitted)
