2026 Women’s State of Origin Game 1: NSW Blues Face Queensland Maroons
Women’s State of Origin 2026 Game 1: NSW Blues v Queensland Maroons – live
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
The 2026 Women's State of Origin Game 1 features the NSW Blues taking on the Queensland Maroons in Newcastle. The Blues, with 14 returning players from last year's series win, aim to defend their title against a revamped Queensland team that includes new selections due to injuries and eligibility changes.
- 01NSW Blues have 14 returning players from the previous year's series win.
- 02Teagan Berry makes her debut for the Blues, while Millie Elliott returns after maternity leave.
- 03Queensland has made several changes due to injuries and retirements, including the addition of Ivana Lolesio.
- 04Otesa Pule, a New Zealand international, is eligible to play for Queensland after recent rule changes.
- 05Kickoff is scheduled for 7:45 PM AEST in Newcastle, a challenging venue for the Blues.
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The 2026 Women’s State of Origin Game 1 kicks off tonight at 7:45 PM AEST in Newcastle, the traditional heartland of rugby league. The NSW Blues, coming off a 2-1 series victory in 2025, field a strong lineup with 14 returning players, including debutant Teagan Berry and the returning Millie Elliott. In contrast, the Queensland Maroons have undergone significant changes due to injuries and retirements, notably missing key players like Ali Brigginshaw and Tarryn Aiken. They welcome Ivana Lolesio into the starting lineup and have selected Otesa Pule, a New Zealand international, following changes to eligibility rules. Despite the Blues being favored on paper, Queensland's resilience in Origin is well-known, making this matchup highly anticipated.
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The outcome of this match could set the tone for the series, impacting local fans and players' morale.
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