Qld invite Gagai, Inglis unwell

Newcastle's Dane Gagai has been called into the Queensland squad as they sweat on the fitness of Billy Slater and an "unwell" Greg Inglis.

Newcastle's Dane Gagai has been called into the Queensland State of Origin squad. (AAP)

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.