The 2026 State of Origin series reaches a crucial stage as the New South Wales Blues and Queensland Maroons prepare to battle in Game II at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. With NSW holding the advantage after winning the opening match of the series, the Blues have an opportunity to secure the shield with one game remaining. Queensland, meanwhile, faces a must-win situation to keep the series alive and force a deciding Game III in Brisbane.
Rugby league fans across Australia and New Zealand are eagerly awaiting one of the sport’s biggest rivalries as the two state teams clash under the lights at the MCG.
State of Origin Game II Kick-off Time and Venue
Game II will take place at the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne, one of the largest sporting venues in the world.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | State of Origin Game II |
| Date | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 |
| Venue | Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne |
| Kick-off Time (AEST) | 8:05 PM |
| Kick-off Time (NZT) | 10:10 PM |
| Competition | State of Origin Series 2026 |
The MCG is expected to host a massive crowd as fans from both states travel to Victoria for this highly anticipated showdown.
Full State of Origin Game II Event Schedule
Supporters attending the match will have access to a full day of activities before kick-off.
- 10:00 AM: MCG opens for tours and museum access
- Mid-morning: Team walks
- 6:00 PM: Stadium gates open
- 7:00 PM: Television broadcast begins
- 7:30 PM: Pre-game entertainment starts
- 7:59 PM: Queensland Maroons enter the field
- 8:00 PM: NSW Blues enter the field
- 8:01 PM: Welcome to Country and National Anthem
- 8:05 PM: Game II kick-off
- 8:55 PM: Halftime
- 9:10 PM: Second half begins
- 10:00 PM: Full-time
Event timings remain subject to change.
NSW Blues Team Lineup
The Blues have named a powerful squad led by captain Isaah Yeo. The side features a strong blend of experience, creativity, and forward dominance.
NSW Blues
- James Tedesco
- Brian To’o
- Tolutau Koula
- Kotoni Staggs
- Mark Nawaqanitawase
- Mitchell Moses
- Nathan Cleary
- Payne Haas
- Reece Robson
- Mitch Barnett
- Hudson Young
- Dylan Lucas
- Isaah Yeo (Captain)
Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau
The Blues will rely heavily on the playmaking combination of Cleary and Moses, while Payne Haas is expected to set the tone through the middle.
Queensland Maroons Team Lineup
Queensland enters Game II with its season on the line. Captain Cameron Munster will be tasked with leading the Maroons back into the series.
Queensland Maroons
- Kalyn Ponga
- Selwyn Cobbo
- Rob Toia
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Jojo Fifita
- Cameron Munster (Captain)
- Sam Walker
- Tom Flegler
- Harry Grant
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Briton Nikora
- Kurt Capewell
- Reuben Cotter
Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero
Queensland’s hopes will largely rest on the leadership of Munster, the attacking spark of Ponga, and the hard-running presence of Tino Fa’asuamaleaui.
Match Preview and Key Storylines
The pressure is firmly on Queensland heading into Melbourne. A defeat would hand NSW the 2026 State of Origin series, while a Maroons victory would create a winner-takes-all decider in Brisbane.
NSW enters the contest with momentum and confidence after its strong performance in Game I. The Blues boast one of the competition’s most talented spines, featuring Tedesco, Cleary, Moses, and Robson.
For Queensland, discipline and defensive resilience will be essential. The Maroons have traditionally responded strongly when their backs are against the wall, making them a dangerous opponent despite the pressure.
With elite talent on both sides and a packed MCG atmosphere expected, Game II promises to deliver another memorable chapter in the historic State of Origin rivalry. Fans can expect intense physical battles, tactical brilliance, and plenty of drama as the Blues and Maroons fight for state pride and series supremacy.