State of Origin has become one of the most intense events in Rugby League, with representatives of New South Wales and Queensland clashing hard for dominance on May 28.
Since the infamous Queensland streak from 2006-2013, Queensland have won six series and New South Wales have won five, with all of those series ending with the winning side taking only two of the three matches.
Blues fan Stacey Starling, 41, said the unpredictability of the competition makes for exciting viewing.
“There’s more competition between the camps now, there’s not just a domination,” Ms Starling said.
“When Queensland went on their streak, and Melbourne as well, it wasn’t enjoyable to watch. It was a given that one team was going to win and that was it.
“I think better talent are coming through now, with the younger stars pushing up a lot better. Lower grades are getting more attention.
“I love seeing the younger guys pushing up and being competitive to get their way into the teams.”
Coverage for the lower grades such as NSW Cup by the NRL became more prominent starting in 2018, as well as under 19’s Origin getting players accustomed to higher stakes games in 2021.
Both teams regularly change team members year on year, with this year marking the third consecutive year the Blues have had different halves heading into the first game.
Game 1 kicks off on May 28.
