Walters surprised as Boyd retires from Queensland duty

Boyd has regularly featured for the Maroons in recent years, although he found himself behind Billy Slater in the pecking order.

But with Slater missing out in last week's opener with injury, allowing Michael Morgan to come in, there was an opportunity for Boyd to win back his place as Queensland look to turn around a series deficit.

The Brisbane Broncos man had other ideas, telling The Courier Mail: "My time's done in rep footy.

"I've had a great career. I have nothing to be disappointed about. I'm really happy with everything I've achieved in the rep arena.

"I don't think I have anything more to prove. It's time for the younger fellas coming in. They have great players, really quality guys coming through."

Walters did not see the news coming as he considered handing Boyd a recall amid uncertainty over Slater's fitness.

"I'm not too sure what's happened with Darius," Walters told Sky Sports Radio. "I had a conversation with him a couple of weeks ago and every indication was that he wanted to keep playing.

"I'm not too sure about that one. If that's the case [that he has retired] I feel sorry for Darius because he has been a great player for Queensland.