NSW and Queensland are naming their teams for the men’s State of Origin series opener.
The Blues will reveal their squad first from 7:30am AEST as coach Laurie Daley’s side tries to get revenge for last year’s shock loss, then the Maroons will name their team at 9am.
Follow our live blog below for the announcements, reaction and analysis in our live blog below.
Mon 18 May 2026 at 7:04am
When is men’s State of Origin I?
The teams are being named nine days before the series opener, which is being played at Sydney’s Olympic stadium on Wednesday, May 27.
That’s followed by Game II at the MCG on June 17, and the final game at Brisbane’s Lang Park on July 8.
Mon 18 May 2026 at 7:04am
When are the teams being named?
Unlike in previous years, both squads are being announced on the same morning, which just makes more sense.
- First up at 7:30am AEST, NSW is revealing the Blues line-up for the men’s series opener.
- Then, at 9am, Queensland will make their squad official, followed by a press conference with coach Billy Slater.
We’ll bring you both announcements and talk through the decisions made, so please leave a comment with your thoughts.
Mon 18 May 2026 at 7:03am
Hello and welcome to the ABC’s State of Origin teams blog
Hey team, hello and welcome – let’s catch Origin fever together.
My name is Nick and this morning I’ll bring you all the latest news on the teams for State of Origin I.
First up we’ll have New South Wales at 7:30 before Billy Slater names his Queensland side about an hour later.
Both sides are set for a host of changes from last year but we’ll keep you abreast of all the news that’s fit to blog.
Enjoy your Origin football!
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