The three-time NRL premiership winner is the only player dropped from Brad Fittler's Blues side after copping criticism for his performance in his Origin debut on Wednesday night.
Fitler has named James Tedesco as captain after regular captain Boyd Cordner pulled out of the series following a head knock.
In the Queensland camp Valentine Holmes makes a timely return from injury to replace the freshly injured Alex Brimson at fullback.
NRL COVERAGE WITH PIT STOP - YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR A HEALTHY CAR