NRL launch NZ Origin, reveal new eligibility criteria

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On Monday, the NRL made two key State of Origin announcements.

Ampol State of Origin heads to New Zealand

State of Origin's global footprint will grow in 2027 following the confirmation that New Zealand will host its first-ever State of Origin match next year at Eden Park, Auckland.

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has made the announcement today alongside the New Zealand Government and Auckland Council.

Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V'landys AM said the historic clash gives the people of New Zealand the opportunity to experience the intensity of the game's greatest rivalry.

"Rugby League is the number one sport in Australia and the Pacific, and the growth we have seen in New Zealand over recent years has been nothing short of extraordinary," Mr V'landys said.

"State of Origin isn't just a football match - it's a cultural phenomenon. It's the greatest rivalry in Australian sport, and in 2027 it will be showcased on one of the most famous sporting stages in the world.

"The eyes of Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific and beyond will be on Eden Park, and it will be a milestone moment for the game."

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said taking State of Origin to New Zealand was a win for fans on both sides of the Tasman.

"This is a great outcome for fans," Abdo said. "In 2027, Rugby League fans in New Zealand will experience one of the greatest rivalries in world sport live, and we also know how strongly supporters from all over Australia and the Pacific embrace travelling to be part of State of Origin experience.

"State of Origin brings people together like few events can. It's an opportunity to grow the game, reward our existing fans and welcome new audiences who may be experiencing Rugby League live for the very first time — and they are in for something truly special.

"We sincerely thank the New Zealand Government and Auckland Council Events for their support and investment in making this historic event possible."

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said securing one of Australasia's biggest sporting events represents a major win for fans, tourism and New Zealand sport.

"I couldn't be more excited to welcome the Blues and Maroons across the ditch for the very first time," Minister Upston said.

"This is a milestone moment for rugby league in New Zealand, but it is so much more than a game.

"Hosting State of Origin is expected to attract over 10,000 of our Aussie neighbours, generate more than 50,000 international visitor nights, and inject an estimated $17.4 million into the economy.

"With a significant Australian audience, our biggest tourism market, this match will showcase Auckland on an international stage, and put New Zealand on the map as a world-class destination for major events."

Mayor of Auckland, Wayne Brown, said: "Auckland is a great sporting city, so it's fantastic that an iconic event like State of Origin will be coming here next year.

"This city is the home of rugby league in New Zealand and thanks to the recent success of the Warriors, the sport here has never been bigger.

"From the outset, Auckland made it clear we wanted to bring State of Origin to our city, and we've worked hard to secure it.

"We know how to host major events, and we know the value they bring. This match will mean full hotels, busy restaurants and bars, and thousands of visitors experiencing everything our region has to offer.

"Aucklanders will turn up - we always do - but we also want the planes full of Queenslanders and New South Welshmen heading across the Tasman."

State of Origin international eligibility rules modernised

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) today announced the modernisation of State of Origin international eligibility rules to reflect the continued growth and global strength of Rugby League.

Under the updated rules, any player who meets the existing State of Origin eligibility criteria will be able to play State of Origin, regardless of the nation they represent in international fixtures.

Previously, players were required to be eligible to represent Australia or a Tier Two nation as defined by International Rugby League (IRL). The updated rules remove this restriction, allowing players who represent Tier One nations — and who meet the traditional State of Origin criteria — to now be eligible.

The change reflects the strength of the international game and the significant growth of Rugby League, particularly across the Pacific.

Core State of Origin eligibility criteria remain unchanged:

• The player was born in New South Wales or Queensland; or
• The player resided in New South Wales or Queensland prior to their 13th birthday; or
• The player's father played State of Origin.

ARLC Chairman Peter V'landys AM said the changes were a necessary and logical evolution for the game in 2026.

"Rugby League has changed, the international game has grown, and our rules need to reflect that," Mr V'landys said.

"If a player is eligible to play State of Origin, it makes no sense to exclude them simply because they've represented New Zealand or England at Test level.

"State of Origin is about where you're from and what State you're eligible for — not which country you represent internationally. If you're eligible, you should be able to play for your State.

"Over 45 years, State of Origin has developed into something special, and we want the best players playing if they're eligible.

"The Commission has a responsibility to grow both the international game and State of Origin, and this change strengthens both."

Full updated State of Origin criteria