LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In the lead-up to State of Origin 1, the Westpac NSW Blues are returning to Suncorp Stadium, aiming to replicate their historic 14-4 victory from last year's decider.
According to nrl.com.au, history shows that since Origin became a three-game series in 1982, a team losing the first game has only won the series 11 times out of 42 attempts.
The Blues exemplified this feat in 2024, rebounding after losing Game One in Sydney by securing victories in Melbourne and Game Three at Suncorp.
This matchup marks the first series opener at Suncorp Stadium since 2019.
The Maroons, under the guidance of coach Billy Slater, are fielding a revamped team featuring three debutants: Trent Loiero, Robert Toia, and Beau Fermor.
They are poised to deliver a memorable performance in front of their supporters, intent on starting the series with a win and heading to Perth with a 1-0 lead.