What Is 2019 State of Origin series

Overview

The 2019 State of Origin series was the 38th annual best-of-three rugby league competition between Queensland and New South Wales. It showcased elite talent, fierce rivalry, and dramatic finishes, culminating in Queensland regaining the shield after a one-year hiatus.

Hosted across three major Australian stadiums, the series drew record television audiences and packed crowds, emphasizing its status as Australia's premier rugby league event. Each game featured intense physical play, strategic coaching decisions, and standout individual performances.

• Game 1 took place on June 5, 2019, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, where Queensland defeated New South Wales 18-14 in a tightly contested match.
• Queensland dominated early possession in Game 1, building pressure through strong forward play and disciplined defense to secure a narrow victory.
• Game 2 was held on June 23 at ANZ Stadium in Sydney, with New South Wales winning 38-6 to level the series and keep hopes alive.
• New South Wales rebounded strongly in Game 2, capitalizing on Queensland errors and scoring five unanswered tries in a dominant second-half performance.
• Game 3 occurred on July 10 at ANZ Stadium, where Queensland won 20-18 in a dramatic finish, reclaiming the Origin shield after a one-year absence.

How It Works

The State of Origin series follows a structured format where players represent the state in which they played their first senior rugby league game. Selection is fiercely contested, and matches are known for their physical intensity and national significance.

• Selection Rules: Players must have played their first senior rugby league game in Queensland or New South Wales to be eligible, ensuring regional pride remains central to the competition.
• Series Format: The series consists of three games played over six weeks, with a best-of-three determining the winner, increasing stakes with each match.
• Venue Rotation: The series rotates hosting rights, with Queensland traditionally hosting Game 1 and Game 3 hosted by alternating states; in 2019, NSW hosted Game 2 and 3.
• Player Eligibility: Players are selected based on state of origin, not current residence, allowing stars like Cameron Murray to represent NSW despite playing for Queensland-based clubs.
• Coaching Staff: Each state appoints a head coach and support staff; in 2019, Paul Green coached Queensland and Brad Fittler led New South Wales.
• Player of the Series: The Wally Lewis Medal is awarded to the best player across the series; in 2019, Cameron Munster received the honor for his pivotal performances.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares key statistics and outcomes from each game of the 2019 State of Origin series:

The series highlighted dramatic swings in momentum, with Queensland winning a tight opener, NSW responding with a dominant performance, and Queensland clinching the decider by just two points. The narrow margin in Game 3 underscored the high stakes and pressure of Origin rugby league.

Why It Matters

The 2019 State of Origin series was significant for its impact on team legacies, player reputations, and national rugby league culture. It reinforced the rivalry's status as one of the most intense in sports and influenced future team selections and coaching strategies.

• Queensland regained the Origin shield after losing in 2018, restoring pride and validating their rebuilding efforts under coach Paul Green.
• Cameron Munster elevated his status as a marquee player, earning the Wally Lewis Medal for his leadership and game-breaking performances.
• New South Wales showed depth and adaptability, particularly in Game 2, where their attacking cohesion overwhelmed Queensland's defense.
• The series drew an average TV audience of over 3.2 million viewers per game, highlighting its dominance in Australian sports broadcasting.
• Game 3's 20-18 result was the closest decider since 2015, reinforcing the series' reputation for unpredictability and drama.
• The outcome influenced future selection debates, with players like Tyson Frizell under scrutiny after inconsistent performances.

Ultimately, the 2019 series reaffirmed the State of Origin as a cornerstone of Australian rugby league, combining regional pride, elite athleticism, and national attention in a way few sporting events can match.