Qld's Wallace to step up with Scott advice

If Matt Scott fails to reclaim his State of Origin jersey from Jarrod Wallace, the veteran Queensland prop may only have himself to blame.

Wallace says he is confident of stepping up in Scott's surprise absence in next week's series opener in Melbourne thanks to advice gained from the ex-Test prop at last year's Origin camps.

In what shapes as a changing of the guard, Gold Coast's Wallace will pack down in Queensland's front row with Sydney Roosters firebrand Dylan Napa in June 6's Origin I after selectors overlooked Scott.

Queensland coach Kevin Walters said the door was still open for 32-year-old Scott this series, insisting the 22-Origin veteran needed more NRL game time after battling knee injuries.

However, Wallace was confident of showing selectors they already had the right man in Origin I at the MCG thanks to Scott's tips.

Wallace, 26, made his debut in Origin II last year and played the last two games of the series.

The Titans juggernaut soaked up all the information he could from Scott, who visited the Queensland camps after missing the 2017 series due to a knee reconstruction.

"He was here last year and gave me some good advice which I hope to take on the field next week," Wallace said.

"I know myself and Naps will leave everything out on the field - hopefully it comes off."

Asked if he felt Scott was waiting in the wings for his spot, Wallace said: "I am not worried about that at all.

"I think I have a good connection and play some good footy (with Napa).

"I know we can do a great job together.

"Thumper (Scott) would be disappointed (about snub) but that's footy.

"We will rip in Wednesday night and see how we go."

Queensland lock Josh McGuire was philosophical about Scott's axing.

"All good things come to an end," he said.

"But he (Wallace) has been playing really well and big minutes.

"He's one of the form front rowers in the competition.

"I am not surprised he is starting. I am sure he will get the job done next week."