State of Origin

rugby competition

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July 16, 2026

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The State of Origin is a premier rugby league competition in Australia that began in 1980. It features an annual best-of-three-match series between the state representative teams of New South Wales and Queensland. This competition has become one of the most-watched sporting events in Australia, highlighting the intense rivalry between these two states in the sport of rugby league. Rugby league in Australia is primarily centered in Sydney and Brisbane, with a significant following across the country.12

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rugby
The modern era
In 1980 the State of Origin competition between New South Wales and Queensland began, and it soon became one of the most-watched sporting events in Australia. In England this model was followed through the creation of the Wars of the Roses series between Yorkshire and Lancashire.
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In 1980 the State of Origin competition between New South Wales and Queensland began, and it soon became one of the most-watched sporting events in Australia. In England this model was followed through the creation of the Wars of the Roses series between Yorkshire and Lancashire.
Read More