Ethan Lowe

After second-rower Matt Gillett was ruled out of the decider at ANZ Stadium, Walters was forced to chose between prop Dylan Napa and the South Sydney second-rower Lowe for the final position.

Lowe, who has played 15 games for South Sydney this year, has won the spot.

However, it’s unclear whether he will start or if the Maroons will shuffle their lineup.

Speaking on NRL 360 on Tuesday night, Walters was coy when asked directly by Paul Kent if he would start David Fifita in place of Gillett, with Lowe to move to the bench.

Both 25, the pair will be at the club for a further two seasons, until the end of 2018, their re-signings following on from recent contract extensions for Lachlan Coote, Antonio Winterstein and Kane Linnett.

"It's a huge boost to be able to sign both those guys, (who are) probably just about coming into the prime of their careers,” said coach Paul Green of the signings. “It’s really good news for the club."

O'Neill is in his second season with the Cowboys and has found a home at right centre, scoring 20 tries in his 40 matches for North Queensland.