Updated June 12, 2017 18:58:39

Photo: Johnathan Thurston and Billy Slater have been called straight back into Queensland's squad for Origin II. (AAP: Dave Hunt)

Maroons coach Kevin Walters has rung the changes and swung the axe, with Billy Slater and Johnathan Thurston recalled for State of Origin Game II in Sydney.

Gavin Cooper also comes into the side alongside debutants Valentine Holmes and Coen Hess, with Nate Myles, Justin O'Neill and Broncos pair Sam Thaiday and Corey Oates all dropped from the side.

Meanwhile, Melbourne Storm prop Tim Glasby has been named as Queensland's bolter, with the 79-game forward being called on for his rock-solid defensive skills.

In total, seven changes have been made between Game I and II as the Maroons look to level the series.

"[Glasby is] in a good system with the Storm, he's been working really hard. His club form is exceptional," Walters told a media gathering.

"I think he adds a good balance to our bench, it's a much improved bench. Obviously Tim's a big part of that with his defensive qualities.

"Tim's part of what I believe is the best defensive system in the country in the Melbourne Storm. I feel we were lacking in that area in Game I, and Tim will bring lots of that into Game II."

Photo: Tim Glasby has been rewarded for his solid form with the Melbourne Storm. (AAP: Richard Wainwright, File)

Walters also said it was hard to drop Oates in favour of debutant winger Holmes, but said the Maroons could no longer afford to leave him on the sidelines.

"It was very difficult, he's had four really good games for Queensland, but we felt the time was right for Valentine Holmes," Walters said.

Photo: Valentine Holmes has been favoured for his outright speed. (AAP: Paul Miller)

"I don't think he can do anything more than he can, so I think he deserves an opportunity.

"Valentine's a different player. Corey's a bigger body as such, but Valentine is a genuine winger, or an outside back.

"Corey's a winger that's been manufactured over time. We just think Valentine's a genuine speedster and an exciting young player."

The Blues lead the series 1-0 after their 28-4 thumping of the hosts at Lang Park, with Game II kicking off on June 21.

Topics: state-of-origin, rugby-league, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, sydney-2000, australia, nsw

First posted June 12, 2017 13:00:24