LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The battle lines have been drawn as the Blues and Maroons gear up for the 2024 Ampol State of Origin series opener, with both teams ready to leave it all on the field.
It's a new era with coach Michael Maguire leading the charge for the Blues, looking to redeem themselves after a string of losses in the series.
With new captain Jake Trbojevic at the helm and six fresh faces in the squad, it's a chance for the Blues to turn the tide and show what they're made of.
On the other side, the Maroons have their own tricks up their sleeves.
With only one debutant in J'maine Hopgood and a new five-eighth in Tom Dearden, they are looking to continue their recent success after winning the series opener in Sydney back in 2022.
Despite a rocky start at Accor Stadium in the past, the Maroons have overcome their early struggles and now enter the game as the favorites, thanks to their impressive track record in recent years.
Although the injury bug has hit the Maroons with Cameron Munster sidelined, Dearden is more than ready to step up for his second Origin appearance.
On the Blues side, it's a mix-up in the halves once again as Nicho Hynes and Jarome Luai join forces to take on their Queensland rivals.
With a history of changing up the halves combination, the Blues are hoping this new pairing will bring them the success they've been searching for.
As the two teams prepare to face off, all bets are off and anything can happen in the world of Origin footy.
It's a game of passion, grit, and determination, and only time will tell who will come out on top in this epic showdown.
So grab your jerseys, make some noise, and get ready for a clash that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish.