The countdown is officially over as the opening clash of the 2026 State of Origin series is set to ignite at Sydney’s iconic Accor Stadium on Wednesday, May 27. Rugby league fans across Australia are eagerly waiting for another fierce showdown between the New South Wales Blues and the Queensland Maroons in what promises to be an explosive Game 1 battle.
With superstar players, intense rivalries, and massive pride on the line, the Origin opener is expected to deliver one of the biggest sporting nights of the year. Both teams have named powerful squads packed with experienced stars and exciting young talents ahead of the series opener.
State of Origin Game 1 Date and Venue
- Match: NSW Blues vs Queensland Maroons
- Event: State of Origin 2026 – Game 1
- Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
- Venue: Accor Stadium
The famous Sydney venue is expected to host a packed crowd as fans from both states gather for one of rugby league’s fiercest rivalries.
What Time Does State of Origin Game 1 Start?
The opening match of the 2026 Origin series will officially kick off at 8:05 PM AEST.
Fans are advised to tune in early for pre-match coverage, team confirmations, and expert analysis before kickoff.
Where To Watch State of Origin Game 1
Supporters can catch all the live action of NSW vs QLD on Channel Nine, which will televise the game live across Australia.
Fox League will also provide additional commentary and post-match coverage after the final whistle.
Queensland Maroons Team List
Queensland has named a dangerous lineup led by captain Cameron Munster. The Maroons squad features speed, power, and plenty of attacking firepower.
QLD Predicted Lineup
- Kalyn Ponga
- Selwyn Cobbo
- Robert Toia
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Jojo Fifita
- Cameron Munster (c)
- Sam Walker
- Tom Flegler
- Harry Grant
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Reuben Cotter
- Kurt Capewell
- Max Plath
Interchange:
14. Briton Nikora
15. Lindsay Collins
16. Patrick Carrigan
17. Trent Loeiro
Reserves:
18. Ezra Mam
19. Gehamat Shibasaki
20. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki
NSW Blues Team List
The Blues will once again rely on a strong spine featuring Nathan Cleary and James Tedesco as they aim to secure an early advantage in the series.
NSW Predicted Lineup
- James Tedesco
- Brian To’o
- Stephen Crichton
- Kotoni Staggs
- Tolutau Koula
- Mitchell Moses
- Nathan Cleary
- Addin Fonua-Blake
- Reece Robson
- Mitch Barnett
- Hudson Young
- Haumole Olakau’atu
- Isaah Yeo
Interchange:
14. Cameron Murray
15. Victor Radley
16. Jacob Saifiti
17. Blayke Brailey
Reserves:
18. Ethan Strange
19. Casey McLean
20. Dylan Lucas
Match Officials for State of Origin Game 1
The NRL has confirmed the officiating team for the highly anticipated opener.
- Referee: Ashley Klein
- Touch Judges: Matt Noyen and Phil Henderson
- Review Official: Chris Butler
Huge Expectations for Origin Opener
State of Origin always delivers drama, emotion, and unforgettable moments, and Game 1 in Sydney is shaping up to be another classic encounter. With elite talent on both sides and passionate supporters ready to create an electric atmosphere, rugby league fans can expect a thrilling contest from the opening whistle.
Both teams are expected to officially confirm their final 17-player lineups approximately 90 minutes before kickoff.