Queensland Rugby League have been fined $30,000 for an alleged breach of NRL rules after having 14 players on the field in a bizarre moment of confusion during Wednesday’s Origin opener.

Workhorse forward Tom Gilbert came reeling out of a tackle with a shoulder injury in the first half and after trying to push through it he eventually signalled to a Maroons trainer that he needed help.

As he was making his way from the field, Lindsay Collins entered it on the other side.

But Collins — and the Queensland trainer with him — jumped too early.

Referee Ashley Klein was heard in Channel 9’s coverage blowing his whistle and saying “penalty — 14 players on the field,” as a baffled Collins turned around.

“He hadn’t left the field and Collins was out there... Too eager,” commentator Mat Thompson said.

“He looked to go off the field on the opposite sited. There was obviously confusion with the Queensland trainer and who was substituting,” Cameron Smith added.

“Lindsay Collins entered the field of play. He ran the ball.”

The Maroons allegedly had 14 players on the field for approximately 30 seconds. QRL has five business days to respond to the notice.

The penalty didn’t end up burning the Maroons with their rock-solid goal-line defence holding up the Blues.

But they did get some bad news later as it was reported Gilbert had dislocated his right shoulder and would not return.