The countdown to the final is on. Origin fever is already building.
Whoever you’re backing – the Blues? The Maroons? – there’s no denying it. State of Origin 2025 is going to be massive. Every year, this rivalry delivers. Big hits. Big moments. Bragging rights that last until the next one.
And while footy fans love a bit of tradition, each series has something new. A fresh face, a packed stadium, a moment that leaves everyone talking for weeks.
So, what’s the story heading into this year’s series? From key match-ups and venue details to early form and where to keep an eye on the odds… We’ve got it all covered.
Let’s get into what you need to know before the next whistle blows.
When and where: 2025: Origin dates + venues
Mark your calendar, footy fans! The 2025 State of Origin series is happening. From May 28th to July 9th for the final clash. It’s a best-of-three format:
- Game I: 28 May at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.
- Game II: 18 June, Optus Stadium, Perth.
- Game III: 9 July, Accor Stadium, Sydney.
All matches will be broadcast live (and exclusively) on the Nine Network.
The 2025 squads and players to watch
With Game 2 done and dusted in Perth, both teams have now shown their hand. And there are plenty of talking points.
For the Maroons, the biggest headline was the bold call to drop Daly Cherry-Evans after 26 Origin appearances. Tom Dearden took the No. 7 jersey instead, stepping up alongside new captain Cameron Munster. Kalyn Ponga returned at fullback. Debutant Kurt Mann added some versatility to the bench. Slated also shuffled his pack. Reuben Cotter and Kurt Capewell moved into the starting second row. Jeremiah Nanai shifted to the interchange.
On the Blues’ side, injuries forced a few last-minute changes. Mitchell Moses was ruled out (calf strain). This paved the way for Jarome Luai’s return at five-eighth. Max King started at prop in place of Mitch Barnett. Stefano Utoikamanu joined the bench. Brian To’o, Latrell Mitchell, and Dylan Edwards held their spots in the backline. And it was full of attacking spark.
The series is now level. A decider looms. Both sides will be banking on this mix of experience and fresh energy to get them over the eye. No second chances.
Who’s got the edge?
After two games, this series couldn’t be tighter. The Blues edged Game 1 in Brisbane with an 18-6 win. But the Maroons hit back in Game 2. They sneaked in a home 26-24 in a nail-biter at Optus Stadium.
Now it’s one apiece. And the decider is shaping up to be a classic.
NSW will take confidence from how well their reshuffled side gelled. Jarome Luai slipped back into five-eighth. Like he never left. Their forward pack looks aggressive. And Dylan Edwards continues to impress at fullback.
But Queensland? They’ve got momentum. Dearden held his own under pressure. Munster led from the front. And Kaylyn Ponga’s return added serious punch to the backline.
On form, it’s anyone’s game. But when it comes to Origin, form only gets you so far. It’s heart, grit, and who wants it more on the night.
Not just for die-hard fans! Why Origin pulls a crowd.
You don’t need to know every player’s club stats. Or follow the NRL ladder. Anyone can get hooked on State of Origin. There’s just something about it. The intensity. The pride. The fact that every hit, every break, every decision feels like it matters. It’s more than a game. It’s a battle between two states. And everything’s on the line.
Even people who don’t normally watch rugby league tune in. Families gather. Mates fill up the pub. Workmates spend the next day debating who got robbed.
Origin pulls a crowd. Every. Single. Time.
A die-hard fan or just in it for the drama? Once that anthem plays and the whistle blows, you’re in.
For the punters – where to look for value
State of Origin is always a tough one to tip. And that’s half the fun.
Margins are tight. Momentum swings fast. And the first try scorer market is anyone’s guess. Still, if you’re planning a punt, there are some smart spots to watch for the last game.
Series winner odds, first try scorer, man of the match, and winning margin bets are some of the most popular. And with the decider coming up, expect the markets to shift as team news rolls in.
Looking for the best sites? Here’s a list of the best State of Origin betting sites available in Australia.
Just remember – Origin’s always unpredictable. That’s why we love it. Bet smart and know your limits.
Settle in – it’s going to be a belter!
One game to go. One last shot at glory.
With the series locked at 1-1, Origin 2025 is heading for a decider that’s got all the ingredients. Big names. Fresh faces. High stakes. And two proud states ready to rip in.
Whoever you’re backing, wherever you’re watching. This is the kind of footy that brings everyone together.
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