THE mere suggestion made Kalyn Ponga laugh. “Billy on the wing?” the 20-year-old scoffed.

But veteran No.1 Billy Slater says he has no problem filling in on the Maroons’ wing for the first time since 2004 and giving Queensland debutant Ponga a crack at fullback against NSW on Sunday.

Slater, 35, has declared himself a certain starter for this weekend’s must-win State of Origin game two in Sydney after overcoming a hamstring injury that forced his late withdrawal from their series-opening loss.

He will finally kickstart his swan song series when he runs out at ANZ Stadium for Origin No.30.

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But mystery still surrounds just how Queensland coach Kevin Walters will use Newcastle fullback Ponga as a bench utility in his Origin debut.

Ponga had dismissed the notion of his childhood idol Slater stepping aside for him at fullback during game two when he fronted a packed media scrum at Camp Maroon.

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But the veteran No.1 did not rule out playing on the Maroons wing for the first time since his debut Origin series 14 years ago - when Ponga was six years old - to accommodate the rookie.

“Kalyn can play multiple positions, fullback could possibly be one,” Slater said.

“I will do whatever is best for Queensland. I think everyone is willing to step into different positions and bend a little for the side.”

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Slater appeared to have also jumped on the already-packed Ponga bandwagon, saying he could not wait for the Knights strike weapon to be unleashed.

“I am sure Kevvie has a plan in his head. He will certainly be a great attribute for us coming on the field when the Blues are a little bit tired and he is nice and fresh,” he said.

Slater said he would take Ponga under his wing at Camp Maroon.

“It (mentoring) is something I enjoy doing. Having him in camp now brings a bit of freshness to me too,” he said.

“But if I can pass on anything and help him build his game I am happy to do that.” Ponga admitted he had become a sponge around his hero.

“He’s probably the best fullback of the last 10 years or so. He is someone I have looked up to,” Ponga said.

“I have the opportunity to learn off Billy over the next few days. I will look to do that.

“I am looking forward to picking his brain.”