LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The NRL has announced a significant change to the Women's State of Origin series after widespread backlash over the "ridiculous" two-game format.
Following the controversy of NSW and Queensland drawing the series 1-1, the NRL has confirmed that the Women's State of Origin will now consist of three games starting in 2024.
This decision comes after calls from fans and pundits to align the women's game with the men's, and the NRL has listened and acted upon those pleas.
The series will now mirror the men's game with three matches and will be announced in the official draw next week.
Stand-alone fixtures will continue to be held for the women's Origin games, and players will also receive a significant financial boost, with reports of a $15,000 match payment for playing in an Origin game.
Channel 9 commentator Phil Gould, who was vocal in his criticism of the two-game series, expressed his support for the change, stating, "I'll be campaigning for a decider.
Don't worry girls, I'll get you a decider.
I'll find a ground for them…come and play at Belmore if you like.
I'll put it on." The NRL's decision to expand the Women's State of Origin series is a positive step towards further developing and promoting the women's game within the rugby league community.