The NRL is poised to once again appoint Ashley Klein as the referee for the second match of the 2026 State of Origin series.
Klein faced scrutiny following a contentious send-off in Game 1 when Kalyn Ponga was deemed to have made aggressive contact with NSW Blues winger Tolutau Koula, targeting his head with a shoulder charge.
The match review committee handed Ponga a Grade 2 charge, which entails a fine rather than a suspension in Origin games, inciting backlash from Queensland supporters.
An online petition started by The Courier Mail has gained over 25,000 signatures, demanding Klein be removed from officiating the remainder of the series due to the controversial ruling, especially after Queensland blew a 14-point lead in the final 22 minutes.
As Game 2 approaches, the Maroons are set to play at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and face a must-win scenario before potentially returning to Brisbane for a decisive clash at Suncorp Stadium.
According to News Corp, the NRL intends to stand by Klein for Game 2, unless a significant controversy arises over the next two weeks.
A focal point of the Origin dispute was Chris Butler in the bunker, who seemed to advocate for a sin bin instead of a send off; however, the laws dictate that the on-field referee holds the ultimate authority on penalties.
In the aftermath of the decision, the NRL reiterated their support for Klein. "The NRL supports Ashley Klein's decision to send off Kalyn Ponga during State of Origin Game One," stated Graham Annesley, the NRL's head of football.