The State of Origin schedule for the 2026 season was released and it includes a presence in different but familiar territory.
A packed stadium with as many as 90,000 fans is expected for the second clash between NSW and Queensland.
The last time Origin was played at the MCG, 90,084 watched NSW smash the Maroons 38-18 in 2024.
The Origin series kicks off in Sydney and it will end in Brisbane, with fans waiting for a game to be taken to New Zealand, which will occur in the 2027 season.
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For NSW, the series could potentially be won in Brisbane, which is a rare feat but not entirely impossible if it were to go to a series decider.
The women’s State of Origin is also getting a tweak, with the third game to be played on the Gold Coast for the first time.
The first game will be played at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, with the final two clashes to both be in Queensland, giving the Maroons home advantage.
Game 2 will be at Suncorp Stadium and a potential series decider to be played at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast on May 28.
Men
Accor Stadium, Wednesday, May 27
MCG, Wednesday, June 17
Suncorp Stadium, Wednesday, July 8
Women
McDonald Jones Stadium, Thursday, April 30
Suncorp Stadium, Thursday, May 14
Cbus Super Stadium, Thursday, May 28