State of Origin: A Historical Journey Through Rugby League Records

Since its inception in 1980, the State of Origin series has been a staple in the world of rugby league, showcasing fierce competition between the states of Queensland and New South Wales. Over the course of 129 games, numerous records have been set that exemplify the passion and talent displayed on the field.

One of the most notable records is Queensland’s dominance with 24 series wins compared to New South Wales’ 16, highlighting the Maroons’ consistent performance over the years. Additionally, the head-to-head games tally stands at 70 wins for Queensland and 58 for New South Wales, with two drawn series in the mix.

Individual records also shine in the State of Origin history books. Cameron Smith holds the record for the most appearances with 42 games, showcasing his longevity and dedication to the Queensland team. Johnathan Thurston leads as the all-time points-scorer with 220 points, while Greg Inglis tops the try-scoring charts with 18 tries to his name.

Ryan Girdler’s outstanding performance in Game III, 2000, where he scored 32 points in a single match remains a standout record. His feat of 52 points and 5 tries in a series, shared with Lote Tuqiri, further exemplifies the individual brilliance seen on the Origin stage.

Wally Lewis, known as ‘The King’, stands tall with the most Man of the Match awards at eight, a testament to his impact on Queensland’s success over his career. Mal Meninga‘s coaching legacy also shines through as the most successful coach in Origin history, winning nine out of ten series during his tenure.

The State of Origin has not only been confined to Australian soil, with a historic exhibition match held in Long Beach, California in 1987, showcasing the international appeal of the rivalry. The matches have been spread across various venues and cities, with the Melbourne Cricket Ground hosting the largest crowd of 91,513 in Game II, 2015.

Throughout the history of State of Origin, notable incidents have occurred, such as players being sent off. Joseph Suaali'i‘s quick exit in the 2024 series stands out, alongside other instances involving players like Craig Greenhill, Gorden Tallis, Trent Waterhouse, Jarome Luai, Reece Walsh, and Ben Ikin, each etching their names in Origin lore.