State of Origin is the biggest rugby league event in Australia. It is a three-game series between the New South Wales (NSW) Blues and the Queensland Maroons. The return of Game 2 to the MCG is a major highlight for 2026. The iconic Melbourne venue last hosted State of Origin in 2018, drawing a crowd of more than 87,000 fans. This is going to be a massive occasion for fans across the country. Let’s have a look at its detail about schedule in this blog.
Two Teams of State of Origin
Here are the 2 teams participating in the State of Origin.
| Team | State Represented | Home Ground | Series Won |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales Blues | New South Wales | Accor Stadium | 17 |
| Queensland Maroons | Queensland | Suncorp Stadium | 25 |
Format of the State of Origin
The series consists of three matches, and the team that wins at least two games is declared the winner. Each match is highly important, as an early lead can quickly decide the outcome. If a team wins the first two matches, the series is sealed without needing the third game.
However, if both teams win one match each, the final game becomes the decider. This format keeps the competition intense, as every match builds pressure and excitement for both players and fans.
State of Origin 2026 Schedule
Here is the confirmed schedule for the 2026 Ampol State of Origin Men’s Series:
| Match | Date | Venue | City | Kickoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Wednesday, 27 May 2026 | Accor Stadium | Sydney, NSW | 8:05 PM AEST |
| Game 2 | Wednesday, 17 June 2026 | Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) | Melbourne, VIC | 8:10 PM AEST |
| Game 3 | Wednesday, 8 July 2026 | Suncorp Stadium | Brisbane, QLD | 8:10 PM AEST |
The series opens in Sydney, then heads to Melbourne for a huge clash at the MCG, and finishes with a potential series decider at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Women’s State of Origin 2026 Schedule:
| Match | Date | Venue | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Thursday, 30 April 2026 | McDonald Jones Stadium | Newcastle, NSW |
| Game 2 | Thursday, 14 May 2026 | Suncorp Stadium | Brisbane, QLD |
| Game 3 | Thursday, 28 May 2026 | Cbus Super Stadium | Gold Coast, QLD |
How Players Are Picked in the State of Origin
In the State of Origin, player selection follows strict eligibility rules that focus on a player’s true origin rather than just current performance. Players are chosen based on the state where they first played senior-level rugby league, not where they were born or currently play. This rule ensures that each player represents their roots and early development in the sport.
Selectors from both teams carefully analyze player performance in club competitions like the NRL. They look at form, fitness, consistency, and experience. However, even top-performing players cannot switch states if they are not eligible under the origin rule.
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Where to Watch State of Origin 2026
All matches in the men’s and women’s Origin series will be broadcast live and exclusively on the Nine Network. So even if you can’t be at the stadium, you can watch every moment from home.
