Gallen retired from Origin football last year in order to focus all his energy to helping the Sharks win back-to-back premierships.

"I wouldn't say I regret it because I made a commitment to the club," Gallen, a veteran of 24 Origin matches said.

"But I think I'm playing good enough that if I was there no one could really argue with it."

Coach Shane Flanagan said he was grateful his captain had reduced his playing schedule.

"It'll be good to have Gal not have to go through that period,” he said.