The teams have been announced, and the players are preparing for the second State of Origin match of the year. Queensland faces a crucial game after losing the first match at home to the Blues with a score of 18-6.
Game II of the State of Origin series will take place this Wednesday, June 18. The game's start time will vary depending on the time zone.
This match will be held at Perth Stadium in Western Australia, marking it as the neutral ground game for this series. Previously, the Blues have been victorious in both State of Origin games played at this venue. In 2019, New South Wales won 38-6, and in 2022, they won 44-12.
The game will be broadcast on Channel Nine. It will also be available on Nine's streaming platform. Due to exclusive broadcasting rights, the match will not be available on other streaming platforms. Radio coverage will be available on ABC Radio through the ABC listen app. Live updates will also be available on the ABC News website.
Significant changes have been made to the Queensland team. Coach Billy Slater has dropped Daly Cherry-Evans, marking the first time a Maroons captain has been dropped mid-series in nearly three decades. Cameron Munster will now captain the team, celebrating his 20th State of Origin match. Tom Dearden will play at halfback, and Kurt Mann will wear the #14 jersey. Beau Fermor has also been dropped, with Kurt Capewell returning to the side.
For the Blues, coach Laurie Daley has moved Max King to the starting prop position due to an injury, allowing Stefano Utoikamanu to join the 17. Matt Burton, Keaon Koloamatangi, and Lindsay Smith have been named on the extended bench.
The final game of the series, Game III, will be held on Wednesday, July 9, at Stadium Australia in Sydney.
The Women's State of Origin series has already concluded, with New South Wales winning the series after winning two out of three games.
5 Comments
Amatus
Queensland is setting themselves up for a total defeat. They need a complete overhaul.
BuggaBoom
Disappointing to see Queensland treated like this. Are we not good enough anymore?
Loubianka
This series feels rigged with the Blues always winning at neutral venues. What's the point?
Katchuka
Cameron Munster has been a standout player; he’s definitely ready to take on the captaincy!
Leonardo
Even if they win, it’ll only be because the Blues underestimate them. That’s no real victory.