Even NSW back ‘legendary’ Papalii’s Origin swansong

Jasper Bruce and Scott Bailey | July 6, 2025

Even NSW’s players can concede that bringing Josh Papalii out of representative retirement for the State of Origin decider has the makings of a Queensland masterstroke.

Papalii’s mission on July 9 is deceptively simple: turbo-charge both the belief of the inexperienced players and the physicality of the Maroons’ pack.

But NSW forward and Canberra teammate Hudson Young admits he was a little surprised to see Papalii accept coach Billy Slater’s call to arms.

The 33-year-old has a new-born baby at home and had retired from the Origin arena ahead of the 2023 series, focusing solely on current NRL ladder leaders the Raiders thereafter.

But with the series on the line in Sydney, Papalii’s comeback could hardly come at a more crucial time for Queensland.

“He’s been saying they’ve been trying to get him for a few years,” Young told AAP.

“To be honest, I was surprised he took the offer up. He’s obviously been a great player for such a long time. His form this year has been incredible, it’s well-deserved.

“He probably wants to challenge himself one more time.”

Papalii filled a similar role as elder statesman on Samoa’s run to a fairytale first World Cup final berth in 2022.

It’s how NSW’s Samoan contingent know his inclusion for Queensland will be bigger than just what he can offer on the paddock.

“He’s definitely going to add more value to that team,” NSW winger Brian To’o told AAP.

“I think that’s something that really inspires not just the Samoan boys, but everyone. I know all the Samoan boys really look up to him.

“He’s legendary in our culture. I know that he will definitely showcase that for the Maroons as well.”

Samoa and NSW playmaker Jarome Luai predicted Papalii’s 24th and final Origin game would carry extra significance given a possible move overseas next season.

Papalii has already confirmed he will not be at the Raiders next year and has yet to sign elsewhere for 2026, though has been linked with English club St Helens.

“It’s a bit of a last ride for him,” Luai said.

“To have an experienced guy like that who’s done it all in the game, he’s played at a high level for so long, he can speak of his experiences, I think even being around the group, it’ll be a lot better.

“I’m sure he’ll get up for it, the boys will get up for it for him.”