State of Origin: A Must-Watch for Rugby League Fans

The State of Origin is a three-game rugby league series played annually between two Australian state representative teams, the New South Wales Blues and the Queensland Maroons. It is one of the most popular events for sports betting. The series, which takes place each year in May and June, is one of Australia's most popular athletic events, with each game generating large television audiences and frequently selling out stadiums..

History of the State of Origin Series

The State of Origin series was first played in 1980 and has been held every year since then, except for 1997 and 2001, when it was not played due to scheduling conflicts. The series has been won by Queensland 29 times, New South Wales 16 times, and there have been four drawn series.

Iconic Moments in State of Origin Rugby

The State of Origin series is a fiercely contested rivalry, with both sides playing for pride and bragging rights. The matches are often close and physical, and there have been some famous moments in the series' history,some of the most memorable include:

• Arthur Beetson leads the Maroons out in 1980: Beetson was a legendary figure in rugby league and his introduction as the first captain of Queensland in the inaugural State of Origin match is one of the most iconic moments in the history of the series.
• Wally Lewis's send-off in 1991: Lewis was one of the greatest players of all time and his send-off in the second match of the 1991 series was a controversial moment that still resonates with fans today.
• Billy Slater's chip and chase in 2004: Slater's incredible try in the second match of the 2004 series is one of the most memorable individual efforts in State of Origin history.
• Brad Fittler's final Origin in 2004: Fittler was a champion player and his final Origin match in 2004 was a fitting end to his long career.
• Johnathan Thurston's goals in 2015: Thurston's exploits and multiple goals are the stuff of legends. It was his decisive field goal that was probably the best decider of tall time.

The State of Origin series is a major event in the Australian sporting calendar and is a must-watch for any rugby league fan. The matches are always exciting and unpredictable, and the rivalry between the two states is intense. If you're ever in Australia during the State of Origin series, be sure to catch a game. You won't be disappointed.

State of Origin Venues: Adelaide, Brisbane, and Sydney

The State of Origin series for 2023 will be played in Adelaide, Brisbane, and Sydney. The schedule is as follows:

• Game 1: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
• Result - Queensland 26-18 NSW- First match was a decisive win for the Maroons. The final 22 minutes were amazing. They absolutely crushed NSW with two quick tries.
• Game 2: Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
• Result- Queensland 32-6 NSW-Queensland dominated New South Wales in Game Two of the 2023 State of Origin
• Game 3: Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at Accor Stadium, Sydney

All games will start at 8:05 PM AEST.

Players to Watch in the State of Origin Series

The New South Wales Blues are the favorites to win the 2023 State of Origin series. They have a strong squad, with players like James Tedesco, Nathan Cleary, and Latrell Mitchell. Queensland will be without some key players, such as Kalyn Ponga and Cameron Munster, and they will need to find some new heroes if they are to win the series.

Here are some of the reasons why the Blues are the favorites:

They have a strong spine. James Tedesco is one of the best fullbacks in the world, Nathan Cleary is one of the best halfbacks, and Latrell Mitchell is one of the best centres.

They have a good mix of experience and youth. The Blues have a number of experienced players, such as Tedesco, Cleary, and Mitchell, but they also have some exciting young players, such as Jarome Luai and Brian To'o.

They have a good coach. Brad Fittler is a proven winner in State of Origin and he will be looking to lead the Blues to a third consecutive series win.

Queensland will be without some key players, such as Kalyn Ponga and Cameron Munster, but they still have a talented squad. The Maroons will be led by Daly Cherry-Evans and they will be hoping that their forwards can get on top of the Blues.

The 2023 State of Origin series is sure to be a close and exciting contest. The Blues are the favourites, but Queensland will be determined to keep the shield.