It was billed as a dream Queensland fullback audition between Brisbane's Darius Boyd and Melbourne's returning star Billy Slater.
But Wayne Bennett reckons it is "unrealistic" for Slater to be considered for State of Origin when he makes his long-awaited comeback in Thursday night's NRL clash in Melbourne.
The stage had been set for a memorable duel with the man who took his Test and Queensland No.1 jumper when Slater was finally cleared to end a year-long wait on the sidelines with shoulder dramas.
Queensland coach Kevin Walters revealed this week he would monitor 27 Origin-game veteran Slater's progress, saying he would only consider the 33-year-old for the Maroons' custodian role and not the wing.
However, Broncos coach Bennett said Slater shouldn't be in the Origin mix as the veteran prepared to end a 374-day stint on the sidelines at AAMI Park on Thursday night.
Overall Slater has played just two games in the past two seasons.
"It's not realistic (considering him for Origin)," Bennett said.
"I don't think you pick up where you were after two years out with a serious injury.
"Nothing prepares you for playing except playing.
"It's about Billy getting back, playing some football and seeing where he is at."
Bennett said the jury was out on what Slater would produce in his comeback clash.
"He's been a wonderful player (but) he's been out a long time and he's not getting any younger," he said.
"But I know he would have prepared himself the best he can to play tomorrow night."
Brisbane skipper Boyd revelled in Slater's absence, stamping himself as arguably the game's best fullback.
Bennett said Boyd would not be losing any sleep over talk he may lose his Queensland No.1 jersey to Slater this year.
"That's speculation. It is not going to worry Darius," he said.
"He knows he will be playing for Queensland and Australia either on the wing or at fullback.
"He got the opportunity last year to play fullback which is what he wanted.
"It is up to them to make a decision but they know how good he is at the back.
"And we all know what Billy can do. He just needs to get back and play some football."
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