Slater scored in game two, but has paid the price for defensive lapses

Matt Bowen will replace him in the starting line-up, with Danny Nutley, Ashley Harrison and Corey Parker all earning their first Origin call-ups.

NSW have brought Craig Gower and Timana Tahuinto their squad in place of the injured Craig Wing and Luke Rooney.

Andrew Johns, just back from injury, keeps his scrum-half place, but Danny Buderus is fighting a toe injury.

NSW captain Buderus has been included in the starting line-up, but Penrith hooker Luke Priddis has joined the squad on standby as a precaution.

"As captain, we give Danny Buderus the privilege that he deserves, giving him up until Thursday to make a decision on his injured toe," said NSW coach Ricky Stuart.

Queensland have left one spot on the bench open, with Broncos forward Tonie Carroll favourite to claim it if he can prove his fitness after a leg injury.

Queensland: Matt Bowen, Ty Williams, Shaun Berrigan, Paul Bowman, Matt Sing, Darren Lockyer (captain), Johnathan Thurston; Petero Civoniceva, Cameron Smith, Danny Nutley, Michael Crocker, Brad Thorn, Chris Flannery.
Replacements: Ben Ross, Ashley Harrison, Corey Parker, TBA.

New South Wales: Anthony Minichiello, Matt King, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Timana Tahu, Braith Anasta, Andrew Johns, Jason Ryles, Danny Buderus (captain), Luke Bailey, Nathan Hindmarsh, Craig Fitzgibbon, Ben Kennedy.
Replacements: Steve Simpson, Craig Gower, Andrew Ryan, Steve Menzies.