“It’s not just the brilliant stuff that he brings; he’s elevated his game, and he’s got a really good foundation to his footy now.
“There’ll be no pills in our camp.”
Slater was seen at the Maroons’ Tuesday morning training session in Brisbane – a stint that did not feature hooker Harry Grant, who was reportedly feeling unwell – working with Walsh and Ezra Mam away from the group, as the rest of the squad worked through various drills.
Billy Slater and Reece Walsh have shared a close bond.Credit: Getty
The former champion fullback was witnessed discussing potential plays with the young No.1 – with one looking strikingly similar to a move he and his premiership-winning halfback Cooper Cronk pioneered close to the line.
Walsh’s heated nature on the field came under the spotlight during last year’s series, when he and New South Wales five-eighth Jarome Luai were sin-binned in the dying stages of game two for an altercation.
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Shortly after, during Brisbane’s loss to the Gold Coast Titans, he was dealt a three-game suspension for a foul-mouthed tirade on the field that cost him his place in game three.
But Walsh was adamant he had come a long way from the man he was a year ago.
Since his suspension, the Queensland sensation has sought the support of a psychologist to help prepare his mind to handle the rigours of being one of rugby league’s most recognisable figures.
Walsh – who declared he hoped to remain a Bronco for life as he and his management work through a contract extension beyond his 2025 deal – was adamant he had progressed enough to ensure his emotions would not get the better of him.
“It was pretty tough [missing out on game three] – obviously when you get the opportunity to play for Queensland that’s all you want to do – and it sucks to be sitting there watching,” Walsh said.
“It was tough for me … it takes someone one opportunity for you to lose your spot potentially, I’m just very grateful to be back in this position here and pull on the jersey again, so I want to do everything right.
“I think I learned some good lessons at the back end of last year – I feel like I’ve matured a little bit more as a player.”