query: who coached queensland in the 2001 state of origin series

pos: 2001 State of Origin series the great loss of credibility suffered from the 2000 series whitewash and 40 point last game defeat and decided he wanted his old Maroon coaching job back after a two-year sojourn. In game I Queensland blooded no less than ten new players and Wayne Bennett gambled on the likes of Brisbane Broncos forward Carl Webb and North Queensland Cowboys John Buttigieg and John Doyle who were relative unknowns. But they each announced their representative arrival in dramatic style with a try each in the first game, won 34-16 by the Maroons in the last match played at the "old" Suncorp

pos: 2001 State of Origin series 2001 State of Origin series The 2001 State of Origin series was the 20th year that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. The series was notable for marking the first time an England-based player was selected for State of Origin: Maroons legend Allan Langer was asked to make his comeback for the third and deciding match of the series and did so, helping Queensland re-claim the shield in Brisbane. Queensland stalwart coach Wayne Bennett made it a personal mission to regain

pos: Paul Vautin games), he was considered an inferior replacement for dual premiership winning coach Wayne Bennett who was originally named to return as coach of the 1995 Queensland State of Origin team (Bennett had previously coached the Maroons from 1986-1988), and with Queensland having lost the last three consecutive series and being given a handful of young and inexperienced players, Vautin and Queensland were expected to be easy prey for NSW, who could still boast almost half a side of international players as well as Origin and dual premiership winning coach Phil Gould. However, his representative coaching début took a fairy tale

pos: Super League Tri-series served as a selector alongside Frank Endacott and Gary Kemble. Queensland were coached by Wayne Bennett. Super League Tri-series The Super League Tri-series was an international rugby league football tournament contested in 1997 between Queensland, New South Wales, and New Zealand representative rugby league teams. It was run by the breakaway Super League organisation as an alternative to the Australian Rugby League's traditional State of Origin series, with each of the two series involving exclusively players contracted to clubs of their respective League. New South Wales were overall winners of the Tri-series, defeating Queensland in the final. New Zealand restricted

pos: 1986 State of Origin series 1986 State of Origin series The 1986 State of Origin series was the fifth year that the annual three-match series between New South Wales and Queensland was contested entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. It was the year that New South Wales finally asserted some dominance and won the series in the first ever 3-0 Origin whitewash. It was an inauspicious introduction to Origin coaching for Wayne Bennett who soon afterwards began plotting a reversal of fortunes that would lead to a pending period of Queensland dominance. The Blues finally brought to Origin a passion that had hitherto been

pos: Allan Langer Australian rugby league schoolboy representative in 1982. At 15 Langer's first job out of school was a truckie's offsider, delivering whitegoods. He then worked for the council making roads, but continued playing football. Coached at the Ipswich Jets by Australian former international Tommy Raudonikis, Langer was playing first grade when he was only 17 in the Brisbane Rugby League premiership by 1986. He played as a for Ipswich and in 1987 opposed his older brother Kevin, who was of Wests. That year his selection from left field for the Wayne Bennett-coached Queensland side in the 1987 State of Origin series

pos: Paul Vautin turn when the young Maroons, without any of the stars from Super League-aligned clubs (most notably the Wayne Bennett coached Brisbane Broncos), completed a 3–0 series whitewash of New South Wales that year. With the Super League players available for selection in the 1996 State of Origin series, Queensland were rated a chance of retaining their crown but lost the series 0–3. After losing the 1997 series 1–2, Vautin was replaced as Queensland coach the following year by Wayne Bennett. In 2000, Vautin was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his contribution to Australia's international standing in the sport of

pos: 1986 State of Origin series Lewis for failing to clear the ruck. With the victory New South Wales enjoyed the first ever 3-0 series whitewash. 1986 State of Origin series The 1986 State of Origin series was the fifth year that the annual three-match series between New South Wales and Queensland was contested entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. It was the year that New South Wales finally asserted some dominance and won the series in the first ever 3-0 Origin whitewash. It was an inauspicious introduction to Origin coaching for Wayne Bennett who soon afterwards began plotting a reversal of fortunes that would

pos: 2001 State of Origin series the great loss of credibility suffered from the 2000 series whitewash and 40 point last game defeat and decided he wanted his old Maroon coaching job back after a two-year sojourn. In game I Queensland blooded no less than ten new players and Wayne Bennett gambled on the likes of Brisbane Broncos forward Carl Webb and North Queensland Cowboys John Buttigieg and John Doyle who were relative unknowns. But they each announced their representative arrival in dramatic style with a try each in the first game, won 34-16 by the Maroons in the last match played at the "old" Suncorp

pos: Queensland rugby league team also currently play professional rugby union). The Queensland Maroons squads for the 2018 State of Origin Series: In 2008, the centenary year of rugby league in Australia, the Queensland Rugby League named their best ever 17, selected from all players from 1908–2007. A list of captains and coaches for the Maroons since State of Origin. Each January, a squad of 14–15 players on the cusp of Queensland selection, who have yet to debut, gather over a weekend to take part in the Emerging Origin program held at the Queensland Academy of Sport in Brisbane. The program, run by Wayne Bennett

neg: 2017 State of Origin series 2017 State of Origin series The 2017 State of Origin series was the 36th annual best-of-three series between the Queensland and New South Wales rugby league teams. Before this series Queensland had won 20 times, NSW 13 times, with two series drawn. Queensland were the current title holders coming into the series, having won 2-1 in 2016. With Games One and Two completed, the series was tied with 1 win to each team. Game Three (the Decider) was played in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium; leading to a 22-6 win to Queensland. Former Queensland rugby league legend Kevin Walters coached Queensland

neg: Ross Henrick of the 1983 State of Origin series. His final appearance for Queensland was at halfback in Game III of the 1984 State of Origin series. Henrick later coached Fortitude Valley, winning three BRL premierships with them. From 1993 to 1999 Henrick coached Wavell State High School's rugby league team. Ross Henrick Ross Henrick (7 December 1954 – 8 May 2005) was an Australian rugby league footballer of the 1970s and 1980s. Nicknamed "The Angry Ant", he was a Queensland State of Origin representative halfback, and played club football in the Brisbane Rugby League premiership for Fortitude Valley, Norths and Redcliffe.

neg: 1989 State of Origin series 1989 State of Origin series The 1989 State of Origin series was the eighth time the annual three-game series between New South Wales and Queensland was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was Queensland's second consecutive Origin clean-sweep and an unpleasant inauguration for New South Wales' new coach Jack Gibson who, along with a new captain in Gavin Miller and eight new players, was brought into a dramatically overhauled Blues side that had lost its five last State of Origin matches. Jack Gibson had never before coached at representative level and turned from Origin commentator to coach.

neg: 1993 State of Origin series 1993 State of Origin series The 1993 State of Origin series was the 12th year that the annual best-of-three series of rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams was contested under 'state of origin' selection rules. Queensland's favourite son Wally Lewis returned as coach just two years after his retirement as a player. New South Wales were playing their second series under Phil Gould. Queensland were coached for the first time by their Origin "King" Wally Lewis. An extraordinary defensive effort by New South Wales gave them the spoils in Game I. The Blues

neg: 2013 State of Origin series as in 2016, the Maroons to host two home matches in 2014 and 2017 and the remaining match in 2015 to be hosted at a neutral venue. Former Canberra, Queensland and Australian captain Mal Meninga will continue on as coach of the Queensland side, looking to continue his winning run having won the previous seven series. New South Wales will be coached by former Canberra, NSW and Australia captain Laurie Daley, who took over from yet another former Canberra, NSW and Australia teammate Ricky Stuart who moved on from State of Origin duty following the 2012 series to coach Parramatta.

neg: 2017 State of Origin series for the 2nd year after his maiden series win in 2016. Former Canberra, New South Wales and Australia captain Laurie Daley coached New South Wales for the 5th year, looking for his 2nd series win after New South Wales' 2-1 win in 2014. Queensland won their third consecutive series and their eleventh from the past twelve. New South Wales had decided on an unchanged team throughout the series, for the first time in at least twenty years. 2017 State of Origin series The 2017 State of Origin series was the 36th annual best-of-three series between the Queensland and New South

neg: Mal Meninga South Wales coach Laurie Daley. Meninga made a successful début as the Maroons coach in the 2006 State of Origin series, guiding Queensland to a 2-1 series victory, its first outright series victory since 2001 (this despite the fact Queensland lost the first match). Also in 2006, he coached the Prime Minister's XIII side to victory over the Papua New Guinea national rugby league team. Meninga attended the 2007 Challenge Cup Final, in which his old club St Helens was playing, at Wembley Stadium as a guest of honour. On 13 October 2006, Meninga was reappointed as coach of the

neg: Michael Hagan First Division in 1999. In 2000 Hagan became the first division coach at the Newcastle Knights, and succeeded Warren Ryan as coach in 2001. He became the first former Knights player to coach the club, and later that season led them to victory in the 2001 NRL grand final, becoming the first coach since Phil Gould to win the premiership in his first season. Hagan coached the Queensland State of Origin team in 2004 and 2005. Although he was unable to win a series, in both years the series went to a deciding game, only for the Maroons to lose.

neg: 2006 State of Origin series 2006 State of Origin series The 2006 State of Origin series was the 25th year that the annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was decided in three matches which drew a total attendance of 180,074. Queensland won the series 2-1, their first outright series victory since 2001 and the first in their record-breaking run of eight consecutive series wins. Prior to game one there was growing concern about the long term future of State of Origin, many commentators

neg: 1991 State of Origin series Maroon's coach and Queensland Origin figurehead Arthur Beetson was deposed in favour of Manly-Warringah coach and former New Zealand test coach Graham Lowe, the first and (as of 2017) only non-Queenslander to have coached the Maroons. Two time Canberra Raiders premiership winning coach Tim Sheens got the job as New South Wales coach, replacing "Supercoach" Jack Gibson who had retired from coaching. 1990 Kangaroo tour vice-captain Ben Elias was retained as captain of the Blues, while Wally Lewis retained the captaincy of Queensland despite Mal Meninga being the incumbent Australian test captain. Queensland lost their Australian fullback Gary Belcher to

neg: Tim Sheens ARL City Origin team to a 22–12 win over Country. In the same year, as coach of the NSW State of Origin team, he led the side to a 2–1 series loss to Queensland. In 1997 Sheens coached the NSW super league side to a 23 to 22 win over Queensland in a Tri series competition involving NSW Queensland and New Zealand. Sheens returned to the NRL representative arena in 2006 when he succeeded Graham Murray as coach for City Origin, a post he retained in 2007 and 2008. In 2006, City lost to Country, 12 points to 10 but

neg: Brad Fittler aligned players for representative football, Fittler was given the captaincy of the NSW Origin team for the 1995 State of Origin series against Queensland. Coached by rookie coach Paul Vautin, and with a bunch of untried players thanks to not being able to call upon their usual Origin and test stars (mostly from the SL aligned Brisbane Broncos), Qld were not given any chance of defeating the Blues (who could still call on a number of experienced Origin and test players), but came away with a 3-0 whitewash for their first series win since 1991. However, despite this, Fittler was

neg: State of Origin series 3 Queensland defeated New South Wales 12 to 10 to take out the overall Origin title for the eighth consecutive time. The 2013 series set a new State of Origin television ratings record for a whole series since the 2001 introduction of the ratings system. In 2014, New South Wales defeated Queensland 12-8 in the first game of the series, and 6-4 in the second. In the third game Queensland defeated New South Wales 32-8 after scoring the first try of the game in the 37th minute, with Queensland leading 6-2 in the first half. This gave the Blues the

neg: 2013 State of Origin series Queensland won the State of Origin series by winning two of the three matches; thus stretching their record-breaking State of Origin winning streak to eight years and thus defending their shield. Cameron Smith won the Wally Lewis Medal for being the best player in the series. The 2013 series set a new State of Origin television ratings record for a whole series since the 2001 introduction of the ratings system. Like both of his predecessor as New South Wales coach Craig Bellamy and Ricky Stuart, Laurie Daley was brought in to coach against Mal Meninga, who captained Canberra to their

neg: Graham Lowe far only non-Australian to coach in the rugby league showpiece. After being appointed Maroons coach Lowe suffered from health problems when a blood clot in his leg threatened to end not only his coaching career but his life. He recovered in time to lead Queensland to a 2–1 victory over NSW in the 1991 State of Origin series. He was re-appointed for the 1992 series but Qld went down to the Phil Gould-coached Blues two games to one. Graham Lowe also coached the Western Samoan side for the 1995 Rugby League World Cup. In 1996, Lowe coached the North Queensland

neg: 2015 State of Origin series the 100,024 capacity Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Game III played at the 52,500 capacity Suncorp Stadium. Former Canberra, Queensland and Australian captain Mal Meninga was coach of the Queensland side, whose eight-year State of Origin series winning streak was ended by New South Wales in 2014. The Blues were coached by former Canberra, NSW and Australia captain Laurie Daley for a third consecutive year. National Anthem: Josh Piterman National Anthem: Claire Lyon National Anthem: Australian Girls Choir and Danielle de Niese Corey Parker was awarded the Wally Lewis medal for player of the series. The 18th, 19th & 20th man

neg: Wayne Bartrim for Queensland as a hooker in the Paul Vautin-coached 1995 State of Origin series side full of inexperienced unknowns, due to many Queensland regulars being declared unavailable due to the Super League war. His eligibility for Queensland was later questioned, though, with his only link to the state seemingly being his tenure at the Gold Coast Seagulls, who were at that time based in Tweed Heads, New South Wales anyway. Nonetheless, Bartrim kicked a penalty goal in Game I, which turned out to be the only points scored in Queensland's upset 2-0 victory. He stayed on as hooker and goal-kicker

neg: Queensland rugby league team Queensland rugby league team The Queensland rugby league team represents the Australian state of Queensland in rugby league football. Nicknamed the "Maroons", after the colour of their jersey, the team plays three times a year against arch-rivals New South Wales in the State of Origin series. Captained by Greg Inglis and coached by Kevin Walters, the team is administered by the Queensland Rugby League and plays all of its home matches at Brisbane's Lang Park (now known as Suncorp Stadium). Since 1908, a rugby league team representing Queensland has been assembled from players based in the state to compete annually

neg: Clinton O'Brien Clinton O'Brien Clinton O'Brien (born 10 January 1974) is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A Queensland State of Origin representative forward, he played club football in Australia for the Sydney Roosters, South Queensland Crushers, Gold Coast Chargers and Newcastle Knights (with whom he won the 2001 NRL premiership), as well as English club Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. O'Brein represented Queensland in the 1997 State of Origin series. He played for the Newcastle Knights from the interchange bench in their 2001 NRL Grand Final victory over the Parramatta Eels. Having won the 2001 NRL Premiership,

neg: New South Wales rugby league team New South Wales rugby league team The New South Wales rugby league team has represented the Australian state of New South Wales in rugby league football since the sport's beginnings there in 1907. Also known as the Blues due to their sky blue jerseys, the team competes in the annual State of Origin series against neighbouring team, the Queensland rugby league team. This annual event is a series of three games competing for the State of Origin shield. As of 2018, the team is coached by Brad Fittler and captained by Boyd Cordner. Prior to 1980 when the "state-of-origin" selection

neg: Darren Lockyer in 2001, following Queensland skipper Gorden Tallis' season-ending neck injury before the second game of the 2001 State of Origin series, the Maroons' captaincy was handed to Lockyer. In the third and deciding game of the series, Lockyer was named man-of-the-match, having scored two tries and kicked four goals to help Queensland to victory. At the end of the season, Lockyer went on the 2001 Kangaroo tour of Great Britain. He played at fullback in all three Ashes tests, scoring tries in the last two. Lockyer was Queensland's fullback in all three games of their successful 2002 State of Origin

neg: Frank Stanton (rugby league) finished 5th in 1980. Stanton was appointed coach of New South Wales in 1978 when interstate games were under the old "State of Residence" rules. In 1982, Stanton replaced Ted Glossop as the Blues State of Origin coach, being the first NSW coach to contest a three-game Origin series. Queensland won the series 2–1 and Glossop returned to coach the Blues in 1983. Stanton again coached New South Wales in the 1984 Origin series to another 2–1 loss against the Maroons. Stanton was appointed Australia's Test coach in 1978 and in the next six years was rewarded with whitewash wins

neg: Chris Walker (rugby league) to playing with Ipswitch Jets and recently played in the state final where the Jets defeated Newcastle. He played for Queensland in all 6 State of Origin matches in 2001 and 2002. Walker scored in all three games of the 2001 State of Origin series. Chris Walker (rugby league) Chris Walker (born 27 February 1980) is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 2000s and 2010s. A Queensland State of Origin representative winger, he played his club football in the National Rugby League for the Brisbane Broncos, South Sydney Rabbitohs, Sydney Roosters, Melbourne Storm, Gold Coast Titans and

neg: Ron Willey in the Yorkshire Cup in 1989–90. He coached for a total of 17 seasons and 403 matches. Willey also coached New South Wales to the first ever clean sweep of a State of Origin series against Queensland in 1986. Willey's grandson is professional rugby league footballer Anthony Don, a fullback/winger who plays for the Gold Coast Titans. Ron Willey Ronald William Willey (1929–2004) was an Australian rugby league footballer and coach. He was a representative for the Australian national side. Post-playing, Willey had a long and successful first grade and State representative coaching career. Born in Canterbury, New South Wales

neg: Queensland rugby league team Thurston, with 202 points. Queensland rugby league team The Queensland rugby league team represents the Australian state of Queensland in rugby league football. Nicknamed the "Maroons", after the colour of their jersey, the team plays three times a year against arch-rivals New South Wales in the State of Origin series. Captained by Greg Inglis and coached by Kevin Walters, the team is administered by the Queensland Rugby League and plays all of its home matches at Brisbane's Lang Park (now known as Suncorp Stadium). Since 1908, a rugby league team representing Queensland has been assembled from players based in the

neg: Queensland rugby league team Queensland in State of Origin. Since 2001, 51 players who have participated in the Emerging Origin program have represented Queensland in State of Origin. Queensland has had a total of eight different coaches at State of Origin level, all of whom have played for the Maroons previously except for New Zealand's Graham Lowe, the only non-Australian to coach in State of Origin. The list also includes the known coaches from the pre-Origin era and only counts games against NSW. Games against touring teams from New Zealand and Great Britain or Queensland's three game tour of England in 1983 are not

neg: Paul Khan John Barber-coached Redcliffe Dolphins the following season where he ended up playing in a losing BRL Grand Final side (Easts beating Redcliffe 14-6). He was first selected for NSW in 1978 under the residential criteria. In the single 1981 State of Origin match played under the new Origin selection criteria he was one of four New South Wales based players called on by Queensland. He played in all three games of the 1982 series. He is one of the relatively rare number of players to have represented both Queensland and New South Wales and one of the rare foundation Origin

neg: Mal Meninga the year at the Queensland Sports Awards. In 2010, Meninga coached Queensland to a fifth straight series win, and is now regarded as the greatest and most successful Origin coach in history. He also coached them to their first "clean sweep" since 2000. In 2011, Meninga achieved his sixth straight series as coach of Queensland honoring a promise he made in 2008. The weekend after Queensland won its sixth straight series, Mal Meninga penned a column in Brisbane's "The Sunday Mail" attacking the NSW media and match review panel, and labelling them "rats and filth" after he believed that they

neg: 2001 North Queensland Cowboys season spots throughout the season, including the emergence of Matthew Bowen. Bowen, who made his debut in Round 2, would go onto play 270 games, scoring 130 tries, and representing Australia and Queensland during his 13-year career at the club. Another positive was the selection of four players in the victorious Queensland squad for the 2001 State of Origin series, the most for the club at the time. All four players selected (Paul Bowman, John Buttigieg, John Doyle and Nathan Fien) were local products who came through the junior ranks of the club. "Source:" The following players played a representative match

neg: 1987 State of Origin series 1987 State of Origin series The 1987 State of Origin series saw the sixth time the annual three-match series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'State of Origin' selection rules. It saw the emergence of new faces who would go on to become Origin legends (Queensland's Allan Langer and New South Wales' Andrew Ettingshausen), record crowds for all three matches, and an additional exhibition game played in Long Beach, California (near Los Angeles). The 1987 series was also the last in which players for Queensland were selected from teams of

neg: 1990 State of Origin series earlier kicks. Canberra Raiders' forward Steve Jackson who the year before had scored a Grand Final try to give his club the premiership scored an almost identical try to give Queensland the game and a face-saving sole victory in the series. 1990 State of Origin series The 1990 State of Origin series saw the ninth time that the annual three-game series between New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. It was the first year that the Australian Rugby League took an Origin match to Melbourne to showcase the

neg: Queensland rugby league team Sheens. Meninga ended his 10-year reign as State of Origin's most successful coach. On 28 December 2015, Kevin Walters was appointed head coach until the end of 2018. Walters, a 20-time Queensland representative and five-time premiership winner with the Brisbane Broncos, served as assistant coach to Meninga during four Origin series wins and coached the Queensland Under 20s side in 2012 and 2014. In 2016, Cameron Smith broke Queensland's record for most appearances, and captained the Maroons to win Games I and II. Queensland's hopes of their first series whitewash since 2010 were dashed when they lost to NSW in

neg: State of Origin series with only one game a year, instead of three. New South Wales has won six of the seven, with Queensland winning their first in 2018. They play for the Darren Lockyer Shield. The Women's State of Origin is the Women's rugby league version of the game, and has been running since 1999. The players play for the Nellie Doherty Cup. Furthermore, the current record for series won in the competition rests with Queensland, who won every series from 1999-2014, a better straight record than their male counterparts. Queensland: 1808 Points New South Wales: 1842 Points State of Origin series The

neg: 1988 State of Origin series Daley, the only NSW player in an almost all Queensland forward pack, and reserve forward Steve Folkes. 1988 State of Origin series The 1988 State of Origin series was the seventh annual three-game series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams to be contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Queensland enjoyed their first ever 3–0 series whitewash, mirroring a feat New South Wales had first achieved two years earlier. The series produced an ugly and enduring Origin image when in Game II the parochial Queensland crowd showered the Lang Park playing arena with

neg: Mark Murray (rugby league) the CEO of the Norths club. Mark Murray (rugby league) Mark Murray (born 1 May 1959) is an Australian former rugby league footballer and coach. He represented Australia in test matches and Queensland in the State of Origin. His position of choice was . Murray has also coached in the National Rugby League and State of Origin. Murray, a qualified teacher, was an instrumental player in the early Queensland State of Origin sides, and played 17 games (15 State of Origin) between 1981 and 1986. He also represented his country on six occasions between 1982 and 1985 (not including one

neg: Craig Polla-Mounter captained the Bulldogs six times. In 2001, his final year in the NRL, Polla-Mounter was embroiled in a State of Origin eligibility tug-of-war. Despite being born in Victoria, Polla-Mounter grew up in Queensland, making him eligible for Queensland. Due to playing his first game of senior rugby league in Sydney for the Bulldogs, he was also eligible for New South Wales. In 1993, under the advice of then-Bulldogs boss, Peter Moore, Polla-Mounter played one game for City Origin. Although a push was made by Queensland to select Polla-Mounter in the 2001 series, he was never selected, with the NSWRL blocking

neg: Prime Minister's XIII New Guinean capital, Port Moresby. The team was coached in that match by former Queensland State of Origin coach Mal Meninga, who coached the side until 2012. New South Wales State of Origin coach Laurie Daley then took over from 2013-2014 with Ivan Cleary coaching the team in 2015. Meninga, appointed Australian test coach in 2016 also re-took the reins that year. Originally played in Port Moresby, in recent years the games have been held in various locations around Papua New Guinea, including Lae and Kokopo. Unlike regular international matches, each team is allowed a five-man bench and given unlimited

neg: 2012 State of Origin series 2012 State of Origin series The 2012 State of Origin series was the 31st time the annual best-of-three series between the Queensland and New South Wales rugby league teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' rules. For the fourth successive year a Queensland victory set a new record for consecutive State of Origin titles, reaching seven. Game I was played at Melbourne's sold out Etihad Stadium and won by Queensland; its television broadcast watched by more than 2.5 million viewers, rating it as the most-watched State of Origin broadcast since the introduction of OzTAM ratings in 1999. New South

neg: 2014 State of Origin series Queensland instead host two home matches this year, as well as in 2017, the Blues to host two home matches in 2016 and the remaining match in 2015 to be hosted at a neutral venue (later named to be the 100,024 capacity Melbourne Cricket Ground). Former Canberra, Queensland and Australian captain Mal Meninga remained as coach of the Queensland side, having won all eight previous editions dating back to 2006. New South Wales were coached by former Canberra, NSW and Australia captain Laurie Daley for a second consecutive year. Consecutive victories over Queensland in the first and second games with

neg: Mark Murray (rugby league) Mark Murray (rugby league) Mark Murray (born 1 May 1959) is an Australian former rugby league footballer and coach. He represented Australia in test matches and Queensland in the State of Origin. His position of choice was . Murray has also coached in the National Rugby League and State of Origin. Murray, a qualified teacher, was an instrumental player in the early Queensland State of Origin sides, and played 17 games (15 State of Origin) between 1981 and 1986. He also represented his country on six occasions between 1982 and 1985 (not including one non-test international against Wales), and toured

neg: 1993 State of Origin series combatants and bitter rivals Steve Walters and Ben Elias clashed while Paul Harragon and Martin Bella stood trading blows. In the aftermath referee Greg McCallum sent all four to the sin bin. While Maroons coach Lewis was able to take some consolation from the win, the night belonged to Queensland stalwart Bob Lindner who was playing his 25th and last Origin match and was farewelled by the Lang Park crowd. 1993 State of Origin series The 1993 State of Origin series was the 12th year that the annual best-of-three series of rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New

neg: 2010 State of Origin series 2010 State of Origin series The 2010 State of Origin series was the 29th annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams played entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. For the second year in a row, a Queensland victory set a new record for consecutive State of Origin titles, reaching five. Queensland won all three matches, completing their first series white-wash since 1995. In a world first, the Nine Network broadcast free-to-air for the first match in 3D to the Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne areas.

neg: 1988 State of Origin series 1988 State of Origin series The 1988 State of Origin series was the seventh annual three-game series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams to be contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Queensland enjoyed their first ever 3–0 series whitewash, mirroring a feat New South Wales had first achieved two years earlier. The series produced an ugly and enduring Origin image when in Game II the parochial Queensland crowd showered the Lang Park playing arena with beer cans in protest at the sin-binning of their captain Wally Lewis. New South Wales had a

neg: 2012 State of Origin series Origin concept to the Holden Cup. New South Wales win the inaugural Darren Lockyer Shield. 2012 State of Origin series The 2012 State of Origin series was the 31st time the annual best-of-three series between the Queensland and New South Wales rugby league teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' rules. For the fourth successive year a Queensland victory set a new record for consecutive State of Origin titles, reaching seven. Game I was played at Melbourne's sold out Etihad Stadium and won by Queensland; its television broadcast watched by more than 2.5 million viewers, rating it as the

neg: 2011 State of Origin series 2011 State of Origin series The 2011 State of Origin series was the 30th annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams contested under "State of Origin" selection rules. For the third successive year a Queensland victory set a new record for consecutive State of Origin titles, reaching six. Game I was played in Brisbane, Game II in Sydney and Game III was again played in Brisbane. Game III was also Australia's most watched sports TV programme for the year 2011. Mal Meninga continued on as coach of Queensland whilst

neg: State of Origin series each side taking one game each and game three ending in a draw. Queensland were awarded the series as at the time the previous winners retained the interstate honours. The early to mid-2000s saw New South Wales starting to assert its traditional interstate dominance, causing some critics [who?] to question the future of State of Origin. However, this imbalance tipped in the third and deciding game of the 2006 State of Origin series, which is seen as the starting point of Queensland's unprecedented dynasty. Queensland followed by winning the 2007 series, as well as the 2008 series, which made Queensland's

neg: International Origin in 1989. However this concept was revived in 2001 under the name of the Origin Series, inspired by the success of State of Origin series in Australia between New South Wales and Queensland. The Origin Series was reduced to a one-off Origin Game in 2003 due to the British hosting the touring Australia, New Zealand A and as well the kick off of the Rugby League European Nations Cup. So together with the Challenge Cup, WCC and Rugby Super League, the RFL felt that too many Origin matches would be too much strain on the top players. The tournament was

neg: 1993 Trans-Tasman Test series team mate Laurie Daley. Dale Shearer made his return to test football after starring at fullback for Queensland in the final 2 games of the State of Origin series to beat out well performed New South Wales and 1992 World Cup Final fullback Tim Brasher. The Kiwis were captained by veteran halfback Gary Freeman, but would be without goal kicking dual-rugby international fullback Matthew Ridge who had suffered a season ending knee injury playing for the Bob Fulton coached Manly-Warringah in a Winfield Cup game with coach Howie Tamati handing the #1 jumper to Balmain's utility back Morvin Edwards. Despite

neg: Jacob Lillyman the bench in the 53rd minute. Lillyman was recalled to the Queensland State of Origin team for the first match on the 2011 series. In the week leading up to Game II of the 2013 State of Origin series, it was announced that Lillyman would replace injured Sydney Roosters forward Martin Kennedy as the 18th man for Queensland in the next game of the series, marking his return to representative football. Lillyman played for Queensland in games two and three of the 2014 State of Origin series and in all three of the 2015 State of Origin series. A week

neg: State of Origin series streak three series in a row. New South Wales won Game 1 on 21 May 2008, however Queensland won Game 2 on 11 June 2008, and Game 3 on 2 July 2008. Queensland continued to follow this up by winning the first two games of the 2009 series becoming the first state to win four series in a row. In 2010, Queensland won its historic, record-breaking, fifth consecutive Origin series with a 23–18 win in the third and final match. This was the first Queensland team to win all three consecutive State of Origin Games in 15 years. Queensland full

neg: Mal Meninga Origin Series he coached Queensland to their ninth series win in ten years, with the decider played at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on July 8, 2015 with Queensland recording both the largest score and biggest victory margin with a 52-6 victory. On 2 December 2015, Meninga was appointed as the head coach of the Australian national rugby league team, succeeding Tim Sheens. This, however, meant that he had to resign from his post as Queensland Origin coach (following events during the 1985 Kangaroo Tour of New Zealand, the Australian Rugby League had decided that the Australian coach could not be

neg: 1999 State of Origin series 1999 State of Origin series The 1999 State of Origin series saw the 18th year that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. The series was drawn and the shield retained by the previous year's victors, Queensland. Each team claimed victory in a game and the deciding fixture finished at 10-all. It was the first series to end in a draw. Game I was a dour affair played in hot and steamy conditions at Suncorp Stadium with Queensland scraping in 9-8. The

neg: 1991 State of Origin series 1991 State of Origin series The 1991 State of Origin series saw the tenth time the annual three-match State of Origin series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was notable as Wally Lewis' farewell from Origin football and featured his half-time stoush with Mark Geyer in Game II which match culminated in Michael O'Connor's sensational match-winning sideline conversion in teeming rain. For the first time since State of Origin became a three-game series in 1982, Queensland named the same starting XIII for each game of

neg: 1985 State of Origin series 1985 State of Origin series The 1985 State of Origin series was the fourth time the annual three-match series between New South Wales and Queensland was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was the year that New South Wales finally ended Queensland's dominance which had arisen with the State of Origin concept. Queensland centre Gene Miles was ruled out of State of Origin due to a knee injury. Heavy rain confronted the players at Lang Park when the teams took the field for the opening match of the series, and it was thought players new to Origin

neg: 1982 State of Origin series 1982 State of Origin series The 1982 State of Origin series was the first annual three-match series between New South Wales and Queensland to be played entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. After the matches in 1980 and 1981 that trialed the concept, 'Origin' was fully embraced in 1982, with no matches using the previous seventy-four years' residential-based selection rules ever played again. The series came down to the deciding third match, which a mistake-riddled New South Wales lost to a more professional Queensland. In preparation for the first ever full State of Origin series, the Blues were afforded

neg: New South Wales rugby league team eight of which have previously played for the Blues. The list also includes the known coaches from the pre-Origin era and only counts games against Queensland. Games against touring teams from New Zealand, Great Britain and France are not included. Ted Glossop, Frank Stanton and Terry Fearnley are the only coaches to have coached NSW in both State of Residence and State of Origin formats. NSWRL Hall of Fame inductee and Immortal Brad Fittler is the coach for the 2018 blues team and he has chosen 11 players to debut in game 1 of the 2018 series. As of 2018

neg: 2009 State of Origin series 2009 State of Origin series The 2009 State of Origin series was the 28th time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Queensland won their first two matches to retain the shield and to record 14 series wins, as well as the first time in Origin history that a state had won the series for four consecutive years. Maroon centre Greg Inglis was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal as player of the series. For the first time game one of the

neg: 1984 State of Origin series of the match award. 1984 State of Origin series The 1984 State of Origin series was the third time the annual three-game series between the representative rugby league football teams of New South Wales and Queensland was played entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. With Queensland wrapping up the series in the first two matches it produced the first dead rubber finish and an infamous opening minute brawl in game II. The New South Wales attitude to State of Origin had changed somewhat for the 1984 series, with the Blues squad being excused from their club duties the weekend

neg: 1984 State of Origin series 1984 State of Origin series The 1984 State of Origin series was the third time the annual three-game series between the representative rugby league football teams of New South Wales and Queensland was played entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. With Queensland wrapping up the series in the first two matches it produced the first dead rubber finish and an infamous opening minute brawl in game II. The New South Wales attitude to State of Origin had changed somewhat for the 1984 series, with the Blues squad being excused from their club duties the weekend prior to the first

neg: 1994 State of Origin series farewell rather than Mal Meninga's, would be a victor's. It was a courageous series effort by New South Wales who for the first time in their Origin history came back from a Game I loss to clinch the series and for the first time ever claimed three successive series victories. 1994 State of Origin series The 1994 State of Origin series saw the 13th year that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Mark Coyne's completion of a miraculous team effort by

neg: 2008 State of Origin series had won their third series in a row, replicating "three-peats" achieved in 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1987, 1988, 1989. The national TV audience peaked at more than 2.5 million, breaking the record set in the last game. New South Wales Blues Queensland Maroons 2008 State of Origin series The 2008 State of Origin series was the 27th year that the annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. At its commencement each side had won twelve Origin series with two series

neg: 1982 State of Origin series record total of eight man-of-the-match awards and beginning a run of five Origin best player awards in six games. The 21 players selected by Queensland: 1982 State of Origin series The 1982 State of Origin series was the first annual three-match series between New South Wales and Queensland to be played entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. After the matches in 1980 and 1981 that trialed the concept, 'Origin' was fully embraced in 1982, with no matches using the previous seventy-four years' residential-based selection rules ever played again. The series came down to the deciding third match, which a

neg: 1985 State of Origin series embarrassing scenes or the potential for claims of bias. 1985 State of Origin series The 1985 State of Origin series was the fourth time the annual three-match series between New South Wales and Queensland was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was the year that New South Wales finally ended Queensland's dominance which had arisen with the State of Origin concept. Queensland centre Gene Miles was ruled out of State of Origin due to a knee injury. Heavy rain confronted the players at Lang Park when the teams took the field for the opening match of the

neg: State of Origin results and statistics was awarded with the "Ron McAuliffe" Medal. The following players have been awarded the Brad Fittler Medal for New South Wales player of the series. The following referees have controlled State of Origin series matches. State of Origin results and statistics State of Origin results and statistics have been accumulating since the 1980 State of Origin game. Every game played under State of Origin selection rules, including the additional 1987 exhibition match and the matches played between New South Wales and Queensland for the Super League Tri-series are detailed below unless stated otherwise. Queensland have won 21 series. NSW have

neg: 2008 State of Origin series 2008 State of Origin series The 2008 State of Origin series was the 27th year that the annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. At its commencement each side had won twelve Origin series with two series drawn. Queensland's Mal Meninga was to coach against a former Canberra Raiders teammate in the Melbourne Storm's premiership-winning coach, Craig Bellamy who was to make his debut in charge of New South Wales against a number of his in-form Melbourne players. New South

neg: Noel Cleal Noel Cleal Noel Harvey "Crusher" Cleal (born ) is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer who also had a successful coaching career. A destructive Second Rower for the Manly Sea Eagles, he also represented New South Wales in the State of Origin Series and the Australian national rugby league team. Noel Cleal was born in Warialda, New South Wales, Australia. Noel Cleal along with his brother Les came to Sydney first-grade rugby league having already established a name for himself in the country. He had captain-coached the Wondai side to a country premiership in Queensland, and steered an undefeated

neg: 2002 State of Origin series 2002 State of Origin series The 2002 State of Origin series saw the 21st time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was the second drawn series in four years and being the second default title retention by Queensland, it ignited protests from the New South Wales camp eventually accepted by the NRL, for the introduction of extra-time to State of Origin matches was introduced to ensure a definitive result. A young and enthusiastic New South Wales side proved far

neg: 1995 State of Origin series 1995 State of Origin series The 1995 State of Origin series was the 14th time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Due to the Australian Rugby League's ongoing conflicts with Super League, they ruled that no Super League-aligned players were eligible for State of Origin selection in 1995. This appeared to hurt Queensland more than New South Wales, eliminating Queensland's mostly Brisbane Broncos star-studded back line, and they were not widely expected to win the 1995 series. However, they won

neg: 1996 State of Origin series 1996 State of Origin series The 1996 State of Origin series saw the 15th time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. This series saw the return to representative football of players who had signed with Super League, after a court decision had delayed the beginning of Super League until at least 2000. As a result, both teams were back to full strength, and a new record was set for the highest State of Origin crowd at the Sydney Football Stadium.

neg: Mal Meninga Maroons for the 2007 State of Origin series and 2008 State of Origin series, both of which Queensland won, taking his record with the Maroons to three wins from three series. When Meninga was given a new contract after the 2008 series, he was quoted as saying: "I want to win six [State of Origin series] in a row". In the 2009 series, Queensland won the first two games giving them a record fourth consecutive series win with captain Darren Lockyer saying Meninga now stands among the legends in State of Origin. In December 2009, Meninga was named coach of

neg: 1992 State of Origin series 1992 State of Origin series The 1992 State of Origin series saw the 11th time that the annual three-game series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under "state of origin" selection rules. It was the first year of involvement by New South Wales' most successful coach Phil Gould, who made only four player changes to the Blues squad during the series - one of these necessitated by the return from injury of champion play-maker Ricky Stuart. For the first time in thirteen years of Origin there was no involvement by Wally

neg: 2011 State of Origin series replaced by Anthony Minichiello. 2 - Dean Young switched places with Michael Ennis to play in the starting side after being initially selected for the bench. 2011 State of Origin series The 2011 State of Origin series was the 30th annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams contested under "State of Origin" selection rules. For the third successive year a Queensland victory set a new record for consecutive State of Origin titles, reaching six. Game I was played in Brisbane, Game II in Sydney and Game III was again

neg: State of Origin results and statistics State of Origin results and statistics State of Origin results and statistics have been accumulating since the 1980 State of Origin game. Every game played under State of Origin selection rules, including the additional 1987 exhibition match and the matches played between New South Wales and Queensland for the Super League Tri-series are detailed below unless stated otherwise. Queensland have won 21 series. NSW have won 14 (as at the completion of the 2018 series). The matches in 1980 and 1981 were one off experimental matches after New South Wales had already won the interstate series in both years. Both

neg: 2001 State of Origin series boarded a plane (under a false name) for the flight home, bound for his 31st career Origin appearance. At almost 35 years of age, Langer was named in his famous No.7 jersey for the first time since leaving Australia part-way through the 1999 NRL season. Despite NSW centre Ryan Girdler scoring the fastest try in Origin history after 39 seconds, Queensland took a 28-8 lead into the break with Langer heavily involved in three of the Maroons' first half tries. Alongside Darren Lockyer who created his own form of havoc, Langer tore New South Wales to shreds and capped his

neg: 1996 State of Origin series Coyne had been in front of the kicker. 1996 State of Origin series The 1996 State of Origin series saw the 15th time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. This series saw the return to representative football of players who had signed with Super League, after a court decision had delayed the beginning of Super League until at least 2000. As a result, both teams were back to full strength, and a new record was set for the highest State

neg: 2000 State of Origin series which New South Wales crossed the Queensland line nine times. New South Wales had led 20-10 at half-time but a try to Andrew Johns after the break saw the floodgates open with six Origin records beaten or matched: 2000 State of Origin series The 2000 State of Origin series was the 19th year that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. During the 2000 series Gorden Tallis was sent off for calling the referee a cheat, Ryan Girdler amassed an incredible 32

neg: 2005 State of Origin series 2005 State of Origin series The 2005 State of Origin series saw the 24th time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. The three matches drew a total attendance of 187,309 and New South Wales won the series 2-1, their third consecutive series victory. The Wally Lewis Medal for Player of the Series was awarded to New South Wales' fullback, Anthony Minichiello. The Ron McAuliffe Medal for Queensland player of the series was awarded to Cameron Smith. The Brad Fittler Medal

neg: 1987 State of Origin series There was minimal press coverage of the game and disputes over whether a 12,500 crowd or less (some estimates say 7,000) were in attendance, with many tickets given away free. 1987 State of Origin series The 1987 State of Origin series saw the sixth time the annual three-match series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'State of Origin' selection rules. It saw the emergence of new faces who would go on to become Origin legends (Queensland's Allan Langer and New South Wales' Andrew Ettingshausen), record crowds for all three matches,

neg: 1994 State of Origin series 1994 State of Origin series The 1994 State of Origin series saw the 13th year that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Mark Coyne's completion of a miraculous team effort by Queensland to snatch victory in the dying seconds of Game I has become a featured moment in Origin folklore. In Game II a crowd of 87,000 flocked to the MCG setting a new Australian rugby league crowd record. In Game III New South Wales won their first ever Lang Park

neg: State of Origin series for all three games, the first to do so since 1996. Queensland dominated the Blues, winning 22-6, with Queensland winger Dane Gagai winning the Wally Lewis Medal for Best Player in the series. It also had Johnathan Thurston raise the Origin Shield with Queensland Captain Cameron Smith, before being chaired off the ground by his teammates, ending Thurston's representative career on a high note. In 2018, New South Wales won their first State of Origin series in four years, defeating Queensland 22–12 and 18–14 in the first two games. Queensland scored a consolation victory 18–12 in the final game. In

neg: Rugby League War of the Roses County Championship which had last been played in 1982–83. The fixture became known as the Rodstock War of the Roses, and the first game was played in September 1985. The series lasted until 1991, when it was scrapped due to lack of interest. The fixture was revived in 2001 under the name of the Origin Series, inspired by the success of Australia's State of Origin series between New South Wales and Queensland. Player eligibility for the Origin Series was based on the player's region of birth, but players born outside of Yorkshire and Lancashire were also eligible for selection, based

neg: 2007 State of Origin series 2007 State of Origin series The 2007 State of Origin series was the 26th year that the annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. Queensland won the series by winning the first two games. New South Wales avoided the whitewash by winning the third match held at Suncorp Stadium. The Wally Lewis Medal for player of the series was awarded to Queensland's hooker, Cameron Smith. Ten thousand tickets to Game I at Suncorp Stadium were sold in seven minutes when

neg: 2009 State of Origin series just a fourth straight series win to Queensland, but a clean sweep series. Sam Thaiday and Ashley Harrison were approved to play for Queensland in spite of carrying injuries into the game. The heroes for NSW were Kurt Gidley, playing injured and who hadn't been potent in attack in the first two games, Brett Kimmorley making his first Origin return since game II of 2007 and Anthony Watmough who was tireless in attack and defence. Queensland took the lead in the 13th minute with a try to Dallas Johnson before Ben Creagh powered over the line six minutes later for

neg: 1998 State of Origin series they were flattened by injury and illness. Six players from the selected squad including props Paul Harragon and Rodney Howe and inspirational hooker Geoff Toovey were forced to withdraw prior to the game. Queensland emerged full of running, tries to Walters, dummying his way over and then Ikin, giving them a 12-4 lead before Allan Langer wrapped up the series with a late try. A Jason Smith field goal rounded out the impressive Queensland 19-4 win. 1998 State of Origin series The 1998 State of Origin series saw the 17th time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and

neg: 2013 State of Origin series not actually play. New South Wales retained the Darren Lockyer Shield. 2013 State of Origin series The 2013 State of Origin series was the 33rd time the annual best-of-three series between the Queensland and New South Wales rugby league teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' rules. It was the first series to be administered by the Australian Rugby League Commission which was created in a major re-structure of the sport's administration in Australia. Queensland were to host two home matches this year, however the ARLC Commission announced in November 2012 a new five-year cycle which would see New

neg: 2013 State of Origin series 2013 State of Origin series The 2013 State of Origin series was the 33rd time the annual best-of-three series between the Queensland and New South Wales rugby league teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' rules. It was the first series to be administered by the Australian Rugby League Commission which was created in a major re-structure of the sport's administration in Australia. Queensland were to host two home matches this year, however the ARLC Commission announced in November 2012 a new five-year cycle which would see New South Wales instead host two home matches this year, as well

neg: Gold Coast Chargers the South Sydney Rabbitohs 28–6 and 22–2, a 22–18 win over the Parramatta Eels and a 10–8 win over the North Queensland Cowboys were the few on field highlights. The team also drew 14-14 with the North Sydney Bears. The club's top performers again were the Reserve Grade team coached by Phil Economidis, which qualified for the finals and made it as fare as the preliminary final. Losing out to eventual premiers the Newcastle Knights. Individually there were some notable performances. Young centre Ben Ikin was selected to play for Queensland in the State of Origin series after only a

neg: Sport in Queensland the National Rugby League competition, two of which have been part of the NRL since its inauguration in 1998: There are currently two official Queensland NRL expansions bids to be based at - The other major rugby league team is the Queensland Maroons who play New South Wales Blues in the fiercely contested three game State of Origin competition. The Maroons have recently won their third straight Origin series, as well as their eleventh from the past twelve. The other major state based competition is the Queensland Cup. Swimming is also a popular sport in Queensland, with a majority of

neg: 2002 State of Origin series Johns to succeed Brad Fittler. Days later Johns was chosen to lead the Kangaroos in the July Test against Great Britain. 2002 State of Origin series The 2002 State of Origin series saw the 21st time that the annual three-game series between the Queensland and New South Wales representative rugby league football teams was played entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was the second drawn series in four years and being the second default title retention by Queensland, it ignited protests from the New South Wales camp eventually accepted by the NRL, for the introduction of extra-time to

neg: State of Origin series year. Despite the Maroons' success so far in the State of Origin experiments, the New South Wales media dismissed the seriousness of the Queensland threat to the Blues' long-held dominance in series wins. Queensland however, under the leadership of immortal captain Wally Lewis, was inspired by this, and for the first three State of Origin series Queensland won 2 matches to 1. However, in 1985, under the leadership of captain Steve Mortimer, New South Wales won the deciding match in front of 29,068 spectators at the Sydney Cricket Ground, claiming the series for the first time. The following year the

neg: 2012 State of Origin series Wales' series-equalling win in Game II, played at Sydney's sold out ANZ Stadium, set a new TV ratings record for most-watched second game of any series in State of Origin history. The decider, Game III was played at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium and was won by Queensland. This game set a new record for the highest television audience in Australia for a rugby league match since the introduction of the OzTam ratings system in 2001. In 2012, the first year of the independent Australian Rugby League Commission, a new rule was put into place that would set out earlier in a