Queensland’s dire squad problems could be about to get a whole lot worse with incumbent fullback Kalyn Ponga weighing up whether to rule himself out of State of Origin due to a shoulder injury.

Ponga requires surgery and will need several months to repair prior to the 2021 season.

“Huge news for Kalyn Ponga and also the Queenslanders – he’s a big part of that Queensland team.,” Billy Slater said on 2GB.

“I’m not sure what to make of that but it will be very disappointing if Kalyn Ponga is not available for Origin this year.

“AJ Brimson has been playing outstanding football so he would certainly come into contention for that position but it would be great to have Kalyn Ponga out there.”

The Maroons will already be without several stars when they face New South Wales and are staring down the barrel of another series defeat.