The 2026 State of Origin Series continues with a massive showdown as New South Wales and Queensland clash in Game 2 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. After a dramatic opening match that saw the Blues complete a stunning comeback victory, the pressure is firmly on the Maroons to respond and keep the series alive.
With thousands of fans filling the MCG and millions watching around the world, Game 2 promises another intense chapter in one of rugby league’s greatest rivalries.
State of Origin Game 2 Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | State of Origin Game II |
| Date | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 |
| Venue | Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne |
| Competition | State of Origin Series 2026 |
| Kick-off Time (AEST) | 8:05 PM |
| Kick-off Time (NZT) | 10:10 PM |
Live Score Updates: NSW vs QLD
🏉 State of Origin 2026 Game 2 Final Result
QUEENSLAND MAROONS 44 – 24 NSW BLUES
The Maroons have bounced back in emphatic fashion, defeating the Blues 44-24 at the MCG in Melbourne to keep the 2026 State of Origin series alive.
After trailing 12-8 at halftime, Queensland exploded in the second half with six tries, overwhelming the Blues with speed, power, and precision. Selwyn Cobbo starred with a hat-trick, while Sam Walker was flawless with the boot, converting all seven tries and adding a penalty goal.
NSW started strongly through Kotoni Staggs and Mark Nawaqanitawase, but Queensland’s relentless attack proved too much as the Maroons crossed for seven tries overall.
Key Numbers
✅ Final Score: QLD 44-24 NSW
✅ Tries: QLD 7, NSW 4
✅ Half-Time: NSW 12-8 QLD
✅ Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground
✅ Series: Heads to a Decider
Queensland keeps its State of Origin hopes alive and now heads into the deciding game full of confidence after one of its most impressive performances of the 2026 series. 🔥🏆
Team Stats
| Stat | NSW Blues | QLD Maroons |
|---|---|---|
| Tries | 2 | 3 |
| Conversions | 2/2 | 3/3 |
| Penalty Goals | 0/0 | 1/1 |
| Score | 12 | 20 |
Try Scorers
NSW Blues
- Kotoni Staggs (6′)
- Mark Nawaqanitawase (20′)
QLD Maroons
- Trent Loiero (26′)
- Selwyn Cobbo (46′)
- Selwyn Cobbo (51′)
Goal Kickers
Nathan Cleary (NSW)
- Conversion (8′)
- Conversion (22′)
Sam Walker (QLD)
- Penalty Goal (5′)
- Conversion (27′)
- Conversion (47′)
- Conversion (53′)
Half-Time Score
NSW Blues 12 – 8 Queensland Maroons
Queensland have outscored New South Wales 12-0 in the second half so far and currently hold an 8-point lead with just over 24 minutes gone in the second period. The Blues now need the next score to halt the Maroons’ momentum as Game 2 continues at the MCG.
How to Watch State of Origin Game 2 Live
Supporters across multiple countries have several viewing options available.
Free Live Stream in Australia
Australian viewers can watch State of Origin Game 2 live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now.
International Broadcast Options
- United States: Fox One and FS2
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports
- Canada: Sportsnet
These platforms provide complete match coverage, including pre-game analysis, live commentary, and post-match reaction.
State of Origin Game 2 Kick-Off Time Worldwide
The highly anticipated clash begins at different times around the world:
- Australia (AEST): 8:05 PM
- New Zealand (NZT): 10:10 PM
- United Kingdom (BST): 11:05 AM
- United States (ET): 6:05 AM
- United States (PT): 3:05 AM
Fans are encouraged to tune in early for team introductions and pre-match coverage.
NSW Blues Team Lineup
Starting XIII
- James Tedesco
- Brian To’o
- Tolutau Koula
- Kotoni Staggs
- Mark Nawaqanitawase
- Mitchell Moses
- Nathan Cleary
- Payne Haas
- Reece Robson
- Mitchell Barnett
- Hudson Young
- Dylan Lucas
- Isaah Yeo
Interchange Bench
- Cameron Murray
- Victor Radley
- Addin Fonua-Blake
- Apisai Koroisau
Reserve: Haumole Olakau’atu
Queensland Maroons Team Lineup
Starting XIII
- Kalyn Ponga
- Selwyn Cobbo
- Robert Toia
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Jojo Fifita
- Cameron Munster
- Sam Walker
- Thomas Flegler
- Harry Grant
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Briton Nikora
- Kurt Capewell
- Reuben Cotter
Interchange Bench
- Max Plath
- Lindsay Collins
- Kulikefu Finefeuiaki
- Trent Loiero
Reserve: Heilum Luki
Match Preview and Key Storylines
New South Wales enters Game 2 with confidence after escaping with victory in the series opener. A win in Melbourne would seal the 2026 State of Origin shield and deny Queensland any chance of a comeback.
For the Maroons, this contest represents a season-defining opportunity. Led by Cameron Munster and Kalyn Ponga, Queensland will look to produce a more disciplined performance and avoid the mistakes that proved costly in Game 1.
The battle between Nathan Cleary and Sam Walker in the halves, along with the clash of elite forward packs, could ultimately decide who takes control of the match.
State of Origin Game 2 Result
Full-Time Score: To be updated.
Player of the Match: To be updated.
Series Status: To be updated following the conclusion of Game 2.
With the series potentially on the line, fans can expect another thrilling encounter between the Blues and Maroons at the MCG.