A year ago Matt Gillett was probably wondering if he'd ever play rugby league again, let alone State of Origin.
The Brisbane back-rower was coming to terms with a fractured neck ending an 18-game streak stretching back to his Queensland debut in 2012.
A shoulder reconstruction months later again raised question marks about Gillett's future but since returning to the NRL for the Broncos in round one this year, the 30-year-old hasn't missed a game.
His form ensured an immediate return to the Queensland line-up for next week's series opener and it's a comeback which has inspired coach Kevin Walters and Gillett's teammates.
"Before he got injured last year he was the best back-rower in the competition," Walters said.
"His toughness, his durability, just that drive to win, he is a very special player.
"It will be a tough night at the office, let's be clear about that, but I can't think of a better person to be on that right edge than Matt Gillett."
Former Broncos teammate Josh McGuire is thrilled to see his good mate back in an Origin camp.
McGuire says Gillett's toughness and professionalism will be an asset as the Maroons attempt to reclaim the Origin shield from NSW.
"He's an ultimate professional and a tough man," McGuire told AAP.
"To come back from a broken neck, and a shoulder, and a calf and everything else that happens when you get old.
"He's just been a fantastic member of this team, he leads by example and sets an example for the younger guys."
