The 2026 State of Origin series officially begins with another blockbuster clash between the New South Wales Blues and the Queensland Maroons. Rugby league fans across Australia are preparing for one of the biggest sporting rivalries of the year as the two powerhouse teams battle in Game I at Accor Stadium in Sydney.
The State of Origin series remains one of the most watched rugby league competitions in the world, delivering fierce rivalries, passionate crowds, and unforgettable moments every season. The 2026 edition marks the 45th annual best-of-three series between the NSW Blues and QLD Maroons.
Before the opening game of the 2026 series, Queensland held the historical advantage with 25 series wins, while New South Wales had claimed 17 titles, with two series ending in draws. The Blues will now look to start strong at home and put early pressure on the Maroons.
State of Origin 2026 Game I Details
| Match | NSW Blues vs Queensland Maroons |
|---|---|
| Date | 27 May 2026 |
| Kickoff Time | 20:05 AEST |
| Venue | Accor Stadium, Sydney |
| Competition | State of Origin 2026 – Game I |
The atmosphere at Accor Stadium is expected to be electric, with thousands of fans filling the venue for another intense chapter in rugby league history.
NSW Blues vs Queensland Maroons Live Score Updates
State of Origin 2026 Game 1 – Final Score Updates
Full Time Result
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| NSW Blues | 22 |
| QLD Maroons | 20 |
The NSW Blues completed an incredible second-half comeback to defeat the Queensland Maroons 22-20 in a thrilling opening match of the 2026 State of Origin series at Accor Stadium, Sydney.
Match Summary
| Category | NSW Blues | QLD Maroons |
|---|---|---|
| Tries | 4 | 3 |
| Conversions | 3/4 | 3/3 |
| Penalty Goals | 0/0 | 1/1 |
| 2 Point Field Goals | 0/1 | 0/0 |
| Sent Off | 0 | 1 |
| Half Time | 6 | 20 |
NSW Blues Scorers
Tries
- Hudson Young — 26′
- Ethan Strange — 62′
- Nathan Cleary — 71′
- James Tedesco — 78′
Conversions
- Nathan Cleary — 27′
- Nathan Cleary — 72′
- Nathan Cleary — 79′
Queensland Maroons Scorers
Tries
- Robert Toia — 9′
- Thomas Flegler — 13′
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow — 16′
Conversions
- Sam Walker — 10′
- Sam Walker — 15′
- Sam Walker — 18′
Penalty Goal
- Sam Walker — 20′
Key Match Moment
The turning point came in the 57th minute when Queensland fullback Kalyn Ponga was sent off. The Blues took advantage of the extra space and stormed back from a 20-6 halftime deficit with four unanswered second-half tries.
Nathan Cleary controlled the comeback brilliantly, while James Tedesco sealed the dramatic win late in the match with the decisive try in the 78th minute.
Final Result
NSW Blues 22-20 Queensland Maroons
Match Updates
- Kickoff: 20:05 AEST
- First Half: Updates after kickoff
- Halftime Score: To be updated
- Second Half: Live updates to follow
- Full-Time Result: To be updated
New South Wales Blues Lineup
The NSW Blues have selected a powerful squad led by experienced captain Isaah Yeo and star halfback Nathan Cleary.
- James Tedesco
- Brian To’o
- Stephen Crichton
- Kotoni Staggs
- Tolutau Koula
- Ethan Strange
- Nathan Cleary
- Addin Fonua-Blake
- Reece Robson
- Mitchell Barnett
- Hudson Young
- Haumole Olakau’atu
- Isaah Yeo
Interchange
- Cameron Murray
- Victor Radley
- Jacob Saifiti
- Blayke Brailey
Reserves
- Casey McLean
- Dylan Lucas
- Matt Burton
The Blues squad combines experience, attacking creativity, and strong forward depth. Nathan Cleary’s kicking game and James Tedesco’s leadership will be key factors for New South Wales.
Queensland Maroons Lineup
Queensland enters the opener with a dangerous squad featuring elite playmakers and explosive speed across the field.
- Kalyn Ponga
- Selwyn Cobbo
- Robert Toia
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Jojo Fifita
- Cameron Munster
- Sam Walker
- Thomas Flegler
- Harry Grant
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Reuben Cotter
- Kurt Capewell
- Max Plath
Interchange
- Briton Nikora
- Lindsay Collins
- Patrick Carrigan
- Trent Loiero
Reserves
- Ezra Mam
- Gehamat Shibasaki
- Kulikefu Finefeuiaki
Queensland’s lineup features several match-winners, including Cameron Munster, Kalyn Ponga, and Harry Grant. Their attacking style and fast-paced transitions could create major problems for the Blues defense.
Match Preview and Prediction
Game I is expected to be an intense and physical contest from the opening whistle. New South Wales will rely on home support and strong forward momentum, while Queensland’s speed and creativity could prove decisive in crucial moments.
The battle between Nathan Cleary and Cameron Munster may ultimately shape the outcome of the match. Both sides possess elite talent across the field, making this one of the most anticipated State of Origin openers in recent years.
Fans can expect a high-energy showdown filled with big hits, tactical kicking, and dramatic moments as the 2026 State of Origin series officially gets underway in Sydney.