Match Centre

Series: PREVIEW: 2024 Men's State of Origin I

Showtime in Sydney

Origin is here. Two depleted sides go head to head, down on troops but not on spirits. The 2024 State of Origin series kicks up with New South Wales hosting Queensland at Accor Stadium.

After losing the last two series, pressure is on new coach Michael Maguire who delivered a mass cleanout from 2023, some changes forced along with some brave calls.

Long term skipper James Tedesco was initially dropped, with arguably the form player of the competition, Dylan Edwards, replacing him in the fullback jersey - only to drop out through injury on Sunday prior to the game. As such - Tedesco earns a reprieve and a 23rd NSW cap. Brian To'o and Stephen Crichton are familiar faces in the backline, but will be joined by debutants Zac Lomax and union bound Joseph-Aukuso Sua'ali'i.

Jarome Luai returns at 5/8, following a stellar performance, where he was instrumental in a 42-0 flogging of premiership leaders in Cronulla. Speaking of the Sharks, he's joined in the halves by Nicho Hynes, who'll enjoy the luxury of a full match in his preferred position…

With the Blues bravely opting for four forwards on the bench, it's Reece Robson at dummy half who gets the nod to debut over Api Koroisau who missed out on squad selection entirely. It's Jake Trbojevic who will captain the side and be gunning for a monster performance to lead from the front.

Cameron McInnes makes his debut at lock, pushing Issah Yeo to the bench, although a late change is possible. Perhaps the most surprising selection was Spencer Leniu on the interchange, who'll have plenty to prove in justifying his selection in the side.

For Queensland, the backline is relatively as expected, with Valentine Holmes escaping suspension after a sketchy hip drop in the round prior. Cowboys teammate Tom Dearden narrowly beats out Ezra Mam in the 5/8 jersey, making his second appearance in the origin arena.

Jaydn Su'a plays his first origin game since 2021 on the back of some very strong club form. Surprisingly, David Fifita was overlooked with coach Billy Slater stating his club form was not to the same standard as his strong 2023 campaign.

J'maine Hopgood debuts off the bench after yet another consistent season at lock for Parramatta. Outside back Selwyn Cobbo joins dummy half Harry Grant as the non-forwards on the interchange. Queenslands middles will have to play big minutes, but Cobbo's presence looms as an ominous threat to break open the game.

Last meeting: Series 2023 - NSW 24 Queensland 10

Who to watch: Dynamic fullback Reece Walsh has had a mixed month performance wise, as he's battled lingering injuries and niggles. At times, he's been outstanding, but a lacklustre performance against the Titans places high expectation on him to perform. Walsh will be looking to have a field day in Sydney.

With Nathan Cleary's injury, it's Nicho Hynes who gets the nod in the Blues number 7 jumper. Forming a solid partnership with Luai early on will be critical, and the intense line speed of the origin arena will place immense pressure on his kicking game. A poor showing may destroy his confidence, but dominating on the highest stage will further assert Nicho on his rise to the top.

The favourite: QLD are slight favourites to win the series opener away from home.

My tip: Playing New South Wales in Sydney is a daunting task - particularly to commence a series. The Maroons fell short there in last years dead rubber, but the occasion of an opening game may be the motivation they need. It'll be close, it'll have a twist, but I think Queensland have what it takes. Maroons by 8.