NRL Unveils Historic Overhaul of State of Origin, Sparking Mixed Reactions Among Fans

This adjustment aims to prevent New Zealand from losing talented players to Pacific Island nations such as Fiji or Samoa, simply because those players also desire to compete for New South Wales or Queensland.

It’s believed the change, confirmed by the Australian Rugby League Commission, has been announced to help solidify international rugby league as a formidable force.

This is because changing the criteria ensures New Zealand don’t lose players to Pacific Island nations like Fiji or Samoa, just because they want to also represent NSW and Queensland.

Origin has always been open to players who pledge their allegiance to tier-two nations such as Tonga and Samoa.

But stars from first-tier countries were always prevented from playing in Australia’s most-watched sporting event under the old rules.

‘Rugby League has changed, the international game has grown, and our rules need to reflect that,’ Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys said.

Queesland stars Josh Papalii (pictured left) and Cameron Munster (pictured right) celebrated a come-from-behind Origin series win in 2025

Kalyn Ponga (pictured) is set to significantly benefit from the changes if he chooses to represent New Zealand in the future

Victor Radley (pictured middle) is another NRL star who could use these eligibility modifications to his advantage 

‘The change reflects the strength of the international game and the significant growth of Rugby League, particularly across the Pacific,’ V’landys added.

‘If a player is eligible to play State of Origin, it makes no sense to exclude them simply because they’ve represented New Zealand or England at Test level.’

The new rules could be the catalyst to seeing a new wave of talent feature in the Origin and international fixtures.

Players like Knights star Kalyn Ponga may now be able to represent New Zealand, and Roosters forward Victor Radley could again play for NSW.

Fans have since provided mixed reactions to the news, with some slamming the announcement.

‘So it’s officially not State of Origin anymore?,’ one person wrote on X.

‘They are absolutely determined to ruin the soul of origin in order to hyper commercialize it,’ another added.

‘Anyone mad at this is older than 40,’ another rebutted. 

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo (pictured left) and ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys (pictured) are continuing to showcase rugby league to the world

Blues star Nathan Cleary (pictured) is yet to win an Origin decider

NSW Coach Laurie Daley (pictured) was unable to win last year’s series – which was his first in charge of NSW since 2017

The news surrounding eligibility has come as the ARLC also confirmed an Origin match will be played at New Zealand’s Eden Park in 2027.

‘State of Origin brings people together like few events can,’ NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.

‘It’s an opportunity to grow the game, reward our existing fans, and welcome new audiences who may be experiencing Rugby League live for the very first time — and they are in for something truly special.’

Queensland are the current series holders, after defeating NSW 2-1 in the 2025 series.

Despite losing the first match, the men from the north side of the border dug in and produced a comeback for the ages.

The series win was Queensland coach Billy Slater’s third in four years at the helm.

Laurie Daley is set to continue on as NSW coach despite losing last year’s series.

This year;s Origin series begins in at Accor Stadium on Wednesday May 27.