Emotional Slater Rallies Maroons Spirit as Ponga’s Shocking Comeback Ignites Origin Opener
As Queensland prepares to kick off the 2025 State of Origin series at Suncorp Stadium, coach Billy Slater is carrying a mix of pride and heartache into Game 1. This marks Slater’s first Origin campaign since the passing of his father, Ron Slater, who died in January at the age of 72 after a long battle with emphysema. Known as Billy’s biggest supporter, Ron was a constant source of encouragement and advice throughout his son’s playing and coaching journey. Slater admitted the lead-up to this year’s series has felt different without him by his side.
Despite the emotional backdrop, Slater and the Maroons have received a timely boost with star fullback Kalyn Ponga confirmed to start on Wednesday night. Ponga, who had been battling a lingering quad issue, trained fully with the squad over the weekend, easing fears that he might miss the series opener. Earlier in the week, concerns escalated when Ponga pointed to his leg and sat out training, sending a wave of worry through the Maroons camp and their supporters.
Now fully fit, Ponga’s presence will be vital as Queensland looks to make a strong start to the series. Slater, channeling the quiet strength of his late father, will be hoping to inspire his squad — and his fullback — to deliver a performance that honours both legacy and loyalty. Wednesday night promises to be an emotional yet determined outing for the Maroons.
