Queensland have called Newcastle’s Dane Gagai into the squad as they monitor recovering fullback Billy Slater and an “unwell” Greg Inglis ahead of the State of Origin opener.

Already reeling from Daly Cherry-Evans’ withdrawal, the Maroons are now sweating on superstar Inglis after giving Slater (shoulder) until Saturday to prove his fitness.

As insurance, Gagai has been called into the squad and is expected to train with the Maroons on Thursday afternoon at their Gold Coast camp.