In a performance that combined brilliance, composure, and sheer electricity, Reece Walsh reminded the rugby league world—and more importantly, Queensland coach Billy Slater—why he’s one of the NRL’s most exciting and impactful players. As the Brisbane Broncos snapped their losing streak with a commanding win, Walsh was at the heart of everything, weaving through defenders, setting up tries, and lifting the energy of a team in desperate need of a spark. With State of Origin Game 2 on the horizon and Slater unveiling his Maroons squad, the 21-year-old fullback may have just made the most emphatic case possible for his inclusion.
The Broncos had entered the match under considerable pressure. A string of frustrating losses had cast a shadow over a side once considered a premiership contender. Injuries, inconsistency, and scrutiny had tested the mettle of coach Kevin Walters and his men. But with the home crowd roaring at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane looked reinvigorated—and Reece Walsh was the catalyst. From his first touch, he oozed intent. He played fast but smart, aggressive yet disciplined, and above all, fearless.
Every time Walsh got the ball, there was a sense that something was about to happen. He danced across the turf like a concert pianist with cleats, eyes scanning for space, instincts razor-sharp. His first try assist came midway through the first half, a slick cut-out pass that split the defensive line and put his winger over in the corner. Minutes later, he was at it again—picking up a loose ball and darting 40 meters upfield, beating three defenders and setting up the field position that led to another Broncos score. It wasn’t just the flashy plays, though. Walsh was engaged in every moment: talking to teammates, organizing the defensive line, covering kicks, and putting his body on the line.
It was, in every sense, a performance that screamed “Origin-ready.” For Billy Slater, who has long admired Walsh’s talent and flair, this game would not have gone unnoticed. With the Maroons looking to bounce back from a gut-wrenching loss in Game 1, the question of who can bring x-factor to the Queensland backline is top of mind. Walsh, with his game-breaking ability, might be the answer. His return from injury earlier this season has been closely watched, and although he’s had some ups and downs, this performance reminded everyone of his ceiling—which, frankly, might be higher than any other fullback in the competition right now.
Billy Slater himself, when speaking after announcing the Game 2 squad, was diplomatic yet clearly impressed. “We’ve got a number of really good options, and Reece is definitely one of them,” Slater said. “He’s shown that he can be a game-changer, and he brings a lot of energy and belief to a team. You look at what he did tonight and it’s hard not to be excited about that.”
Slater’s admiration of Walsh goes back years. As one of the greatest fullbacks in Origin history, Slater sees parts of himself in the young Bronco—blistering pace, spatial awareness, and an intuitive feel for the game. But what may have impressed Slater most is not just the highlights, but how Walsh has responded to adversity. Criticized for his discipline earlier in the year and sidelined with a facial fracture that ruled him out of the series opener, Walsh has worked hard to rebuild trust with his team and show he can play mature, match-winning footy under pressure.
There’s a resilience to Walsh that continues to develop, and it’s showing in his on-field decisions. Against a tough opponent, he didn’t force the issue. He let the game come to him. He timed his runs. He made the extra effort on defense. And when it mattered most, he executed. Those are the types of moments that separate highlight players from representative-caliber players.
For the Broncos, the win could be a turning point. With several key players returning to form and a renewed sense of belief, Kevin Walters has reason to be optimistic heading into the second half of the season. But even in a team filled with talent, Walsh is the beating heart. His combination of youth, flair, and fearlessness is rare, and it lifts those around him. Watching his teammates respond—running harder, supporting with more energy, celebrating tries with unbridled joy—it was clear that Walsh’s presence has a galvanizing effect.
As for Origin, the stakes are enormous. Queensland must win Game 2 to avoid a decider in enemy territory. The Blues, buoyed by their gritty Game 1 performance, will be coming in with confidence and physicality. Slater needs a player who can shift momentum in an instant, one who doesn’t just match NSW’s firepower, but outshines it. In that context, Walsh is hard to ignore. While players like Kalyn Ponga and AJ Brimson are also in the frame, Walsh’s form, particularly in this most recent performance, may have tilted the scales.
Adding to the intrigue is Walsh’s experience in last year’s Origin series, where he shone before a controversial suspension ended his campaign early. That fire still burns. He has spoken before about the pain of missing the Game 3 decider in 2023, and how it has motivated him to train harder, think smarter, and grow into a more complete player. This version of Reece Walsh—just as electric, but more controlled—is perhaps even more dangerous than the last.
Slater, who takes great care in balancing loyalty and form, will need to make some tough calls. The Maroons have a deep pool of outside backs, but few with the game-breaking unpredictability that Walsh offers. Origin is often a game of moments—short bursts that swing the tide—and Walsh specializes in creating those moments. Whether it’s a try out of nowhere, a line break to change field position, or a daring defensive read, his presence injects uncertainty into opposition plans.
Walsh’s post-game interview was modest but determined. “It’s all about doing what I can for the team,” he said. “We’ve been through a tough patch, but we stuck together and tonight was a step in the right direction. Origin is always an honor. If I get the call, I’ll be ready. But right now, I’m just proud of the boys.”
That humility, combined with his ever-growing highlight reel, will only enhance his case. Queensland selectors often talk about “Maroon DNA”—toughness, loyalty, passion, and pride. Reece Walsh may be the new face of that tradition. His swagger is balanced by sincerity, his flash by fight. He doesn’t just want the spotlight—he wants to earn it, every time he takes the field.
For fans, the prospect of watching Walsh back in the Origin cauldron is tantalizing. The theatre of Origin is built on stories like this: a young star, doubted and tested, rising again when it matters most. If Game 2 is to be won in the margins, it may just be Walsh who provides that sliver of brilliance that turns the contest. His inclusion would add another layer to a series already dripping with drama.
Broncos coach Kevin Walters, himself a Queensland legend, gave his full endorsement after the game. “That’s what we know Reece can do,” Walters said. “He lights up the game. He makes things happen. He’s had to learn some tough lessons this year, but he’s taken them on and come back better. If Queensland picks him, I’ve got no doubt he’ll be ready.”
Ready may be an understatement. Based on this performance, Reece Walsh isn’t just back—he’s ascending. He’s turning pressure into performance, criticism into confidence, and potential into production. And with Billy Slater watching closely, he may have just punched his ticket to a Maroons jersey once again.
In rugby league, timing is everything. And with Origin Game 2 looming, Reece Walsh’s timing couldn’t be better.
