Earlier this week, the NSW Blues and QLD Maroons have announced their team lists for the men’s State of Origin Game 1, which will take place next Wednesday. Here’s what’s making news in the lead-up.
When is Men’s State of Origin?
Game one of Men’s State of Origin kicks off on Wednesday 5th of June. It will be played at Accor Stadium in Sydney.
NSW State of Origin team
The notable omission from the NSW squad was Sydney Roosters fullback James Tedesco. He has captained NSW since the second game of the 2022 series and played in 22 consecutive games. Coach Michael Maguire instead opted for Penrith Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards, who has won three premierships with Penrith in the past four years.
The NSW side features six debutants including Spencer Leniu and will be captained by Manly Sea Eagles Jake Trbojevic.
It will be Michael Maguire’s first series as coach for NSW.
QLD State of Origin team
On the Queensland side, Gold Coast Titans star David Fifita was left off the team list named by coach Billy Slater. This is surprising as Fifita played an integral role in Queensland’s series win last year and has been in impressive form for the Titans this year.
Queensland will go into this year’s series with lots of Origin experience. Slater named one debutant in J’maine Hopgood while all other players in the 20-man squad have previously represented their state.
Queensland are seeking a third straight series win in 2024 and will be captained by Manly Sea Eagles veteran Daly Cherry-Evans.
