Coaches for Western Australia and Victoria, along with the selection criteria, have been named for State of Origin's long-awaited return.
West Australian great and current Sydney Swans coach Dean Cox will lead his state and Geelong coach Chris Scott will steer the 'Big V' when Origin returns at Perth's Optus Stadium in February next year.
It will be the first official State of Origin match in Aussie Rules since 1999.
Cox, who is from Dampier in northwest WA, is a six-time All-Australian and premiership player during his 290 games as a ruckman with the West Coast Eagles.
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The 44-year-old, who just finished his first season as a head coach in Sydney, is thrilled to be involved in the return of the state clashes.
“I’m a proud Western Australian and grew up watching State of Origin footy, so this is a real privilege to lead the team in February against the Vics,” he said.
“We have a very strong contingent of WA boys playing at the top level, so it’s not going to be easy to pick a side.
"But we feel we will take it right it right up to Victoria.
“I love the fact the concept is back and I can’t wait for the game.”
Along with the head coaches, a chairman of selectors and selection committee will be revealed for both states, along with three assistant coaches.
Players will be selected based on their junior club location when they were drafted.