The last time Kevin Walters spoke about Billy Slater at a Queensland team announcement, the Maroons coach almost broke down in tears.

But there was no need for tissues when Walters mentioned the veteran fullback at his squad unveiling for June 21’s State of Origin game two in Sydney.

“Don’t need Kleenex this time,” Walters joked.

In fact Walters reckoned he was more excited than Slater after announcing the Maroons great’s Origin return.

Slater is expected to reclaim the No.1 Queensland jersey from Darius Boyd after being welcomed back to a new-look Maroons side that has seven changes and four debutants.

Walters feared he may be ending Slater’s 27-game Origin career when he sensationally snubbed the Melbourne No.1 for game one.

However, he couldn’t hide his joy over the 33-year-old’s Origin comeback on Monday.

Slater is set to play his first Origin since game two of the 2015 series after overcoming two shoulder reconstructions.

“I don’t think he was as happy as I was, to be honest,” Walters said of the phone call to tell Slater he was back.

“It will be great with Billy back.

“It was a tough decision for game one to omit Billy but since that omission his club form has gone to another level.”

Walters will hope Slater hits the ground running in his first Origin in two years.

The Maroons coach admitted they would need some of the Slater magic of old to spark Queensland after their record 28-4 game one loss to NSW in Brisbane.

“We are very excited about having Billy in the side,” Walters said.

“We know what he brings to Queensland, and we will need the greatness that Billy brings.”