Josh Papalii, affectionately known as Big Papa, is returning to the Maroons’ squad. There’s no doubt he’ll want to take plenty of inspiration from this in next week’s State of Origin decider! Papalii returns to the Maroon jersey after a three-year absence! He is hopeful, optimistic and full of resolve to steer his team to victory in the rip-roaring contest against New South Wales.
Papalii’s return to the full Queensland team is quite the fairytale. He had announced his retirement from international nine-a-side football ahead of the 2022 series. The decision to return to camp came after conversations with Queensland coach Billy Slater. All this time, of course, he was still recovering from dealing with his own family tragedy. Papalii will provide invaluable experience and physicality to the landscape. Everyone thinks that his experience is going to be key for Queensland in this make-or-break game.
“I was still in hospital for my son and my wife, and I missed the first couple of calls and, yeah, after speaking to Bill there was no doubt I’d come out of retirement and hopefully do a job,” – Josh Papalii
A Protector and Warrior Returns
For over a decade, Josh Papalii has been a stalwart for Queensland, earning a reputation as both a protector and warrior on the field. His influence is often likened to that of Kevin Costner in the movie “The Bodyguard,” reflecting his role as an enforcer for the team. Most of all, his teammates view him as a calming presence with the ability to enhance their performance.
Lindsay Collins who created a special and unique bond with Papalii in the front row during his original retirement match. He reiterated how huge Papalii’s return is for their team.
“I don’t know how Billy done it, but he pulled it off,” – Lindsay Collins
Collins said that Papalii adds a special combination of brawn and calmness to the Bengals’ defense. He said, “You don’t want to see him angry but he has a beautiful nature about him.” This duality is what makes Papalii an immeasurable weapon as Queensland head down to enemy territory to do battle once again against their foes.
Cameron Munster agreed with this, explaining the way Papalii makes his teammates feel confident.
“It’s great to have him back. He brings a lot of that belief and steely eye when you have him beside you,” – Cameron Munster
The Antidote to the Blues
Papalii is considered a starting defensive enforcer and mauler, as well as a game maker by the Queenslanders’ coaching staff and players though. With 23 Origin appearances under his belt, his experience is expected to help Queensland navigate the challenges posed by New South Wales.
Trevor Gillmeister, a one-time veteran of the game, was astounded at Papalii’s present-day efforts and constantly noted his preparation to rise to the occasion moving forward.
“He’s probably our bodyguard and he’s one of those enforcers. Taking him down to foreign territory, it’s going to be good for us,” – Cameron Munster
Gillmeister noted that Papalii is playing the best rugby of his career right now. Patrick thinks Papalii might be just the strategic advantage they need to “sort Blues out”. He advised Papalii to “just blow your gasket in the first 20 or 30 minutes and go hard,” emphasizing the importance of setting the tone early in the match.
Papalii’s return adds a shot in the arm of confidence to an already promising squad. They’ve struggled in the last few games, particularly against New South Wales. His talent to encourage his fellow rubbers is on full display when it’s exercise time. Even as the credits roll, most viewers are understandably still aghast that Slater managed to lure him out of retirement.
The Road Ahead
As Queensland prepare for this important final State of Origin decider, the excitement surrounding Papalii’s potential return only grows. His new teammates are looking forward to using his energy and experience to help them get past their biggest rivals.
Papalii himself expressed satisfaction at being back in the representative team, saying, “Feels good (to be back in the SOO team).” Clearly his commitment to the Maroon jersey goes beyond just keeping it clean, and you’ll quickly learn that he’s more than prepared to dive into this new challenge.
