While Maroons are in crisis, Greg Inglis’ thumb injury could lead to the dream farewell for Billy Slater

GREG Inglis’ busted thumb has thrown Queensland’s plans for State of Origin Game Three into disarray, but there could be a silver lining for champion fullback Billy Slater.

Greg Inglis will miss State of Origin Game Three with a broken thumb. Pic: Getty

CHAMPION fullback Billy Slater could have the dream send-off by captaining Queensland after skipper Greg Inglis was on Sunday night ruled out of Origin III with a broken thumb.

The Maroons’ preparations for Game Three on Wednesday week are in disarray, with Queensland coach Kevin Walters forced to abandon a scheduled team announcement on Sunday night due to an injury crisis.

Walters wanted to unveil his team for the Suncorp dead-rubber on the Queensland Rugby League’s official website on Sunday night, but Inglis breakdown against the Cowboys left his plans in tatters.

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Greg Inglis is facing two months on the sidelines with a broken thumb. Pic: Getty

With Queensland selector Darren Lockyer flying home from Cairns after commentating on the Souths-Cowboys clash, Walters decided to delay the announcement of the team until Monday morning.

Amid the confusion, the one certainty is that Inglis is out, with the Souths and Queensland skipper phoning Walters last night to personally inform him of his injury situation.

A QRL spokesman last night confirmed Maroons hierarchy needed more time to finalise their 17-man squad because Inglis’ scratching meant they had no idea who would replace him as centre and captain.

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The Inglis injury opens the door for Billy Slater to captain his state. Pic: AAP

With Inglis sidelined, the door is now ajar for Slater — who will retire from Origin after Game Three — to enjoy the ultimate finale by leading Queensland onto Suncorp Stadium and becoming the 14th Maroons captain in his 31st game for Queensland.

Walters remains on the hunt for another centre in what is Queensland’s weakest position in terms of depth.

One option is for Dane Gagai to move into the centres, which could pave the way for Broncos matchwinner Corey Oates to return on the wing.

Melbourne’s Cameron Munster also has experience playing at left centre, but Walters may be reluctant to shift him after his strong performances at five-eighth in the opening two games.

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Originally published as While Maroons are in crisis, Greg Inglis’ thumb injury could lead to the dream farewell for Billy Slater