STEVE Price says he would be against 2021 recruit Greg Inglis making a shock return to the Queensland State of Origin team.

Australian great Inglis is coming out of retirement to take up a one-year deal with Warrington Wolves next year having stepped away from the sport in 2019.

However, Queensland coach Kevin Walters has been quoted as saying the door was open for the centre and hooker Cameron Smith to play in the annual three-match series against New South Wales in November.

Price said he was not aware of Walters’ comments but admitted going straight back into an Origin series would be a difficult task for Inglis.

“Would I be in favour of it? Most probably not,” he said.

“Greg’s still got a bit of work to do with his body. He’s been out of the game for quite a bit, but I feel he needs a bit of extra work.

“To go into an Origin series having not played for 18 months would be a difficult task.”

Walters had said: “"Greg is part of the Queensland family and is always welcome in camp.

“I know he is playing with Warrington next year and is a great pick-up for Warrington so he may be available for Queensland at the end of the year.

“Greg being the player and professional he is knows what he can and can’t do. Greg Inglis is Greg Inglis.

“It is the same with Cameron Smith. The door is always open for these players.

“While they are still playing rugby league they are always welcome to throw the Maroons jumper on. How good would that be?

“I don’t know what is going to happen in that space but anyone who is available for Queensland we always have a good look at.”

Inglis played in 32 Origin games for Queensland during his career, scoring 18 tries.