The stage is set for another chapter in the legendary rivalry! State of Origin explodes back into action on Wednesday, June 26th, with a blockbuster Game 2 clash. Melbourne’s iconic MCG braces itself for a cacophony of cheers as the New South Wales Blues and Queensland Maroons lock horns once again.
The series hangs precariously in the balance after a thrilling opening encounter in Sydney. Both sides will be desperate to claim a crucial victory. The Blues, hungry for their first series win in three years, will be looking to build on the momentum they established at home. The Maroons, however, are renowned for their fighting spirit in enemy territory, and they’ll be determined to silence the Melbourne crowd and regain control of the series.
This match promises a relentless battle across the park. The Blues boast a potent attacking force spearheaded by the dazzling Latrell Mitchell and the ever-reliable Brian To’o on the wing. They’ll be aiming to exploit any weaknesses in the Queensland defense, marshalled by the experienced Daly Cherry-Evans.
The Maroons, however, have their own weapons of mass destruction. Valentine Holmes’ aerial prowess and Xavier Coates’ blistering speed on the flanks pose a constant threat. Keeping them quiet will be a crucial task for the Blues’ defensive line, anchored by the ever-present Jake Trbojevic.
The battle in the middle promises to be just as ferocious. Payne Haas, the enforcer for the Maroons, will be looking to dominate the ruck and create space for his halves. The Blues will counter with the experience of Cameron Murray and the youthful exuberance of Liam Martin. Every contest will be a fight for supremacy, every tackle a battle of wills.
Adding another layer of intrigue is the drama surrounding injuries. Both sides have seen key players ruled out, forcing them to reshuffle their lineups. How the Blues cope without the experience of James Tedesco and the Maroons navigate the loss of Selwyn Cobbo will be fascinating to watch.
This isn’t just a game; it’s a war cry for state pride. The MCG will be a sea of blue and maroon, with passionate fans roaring their teams on. Buckle up, rugby league fans, because State of Origin Game 2 promises to be an unforgettable spectacle!
Starting Time, Date and Venue of State of Origin Game 2
Date: Wednesday, June 26th, 2024
Start Time: 6.06 am ET and 8.06 pm AEST
In 2021 and 2022, Game 2 was played as a standalone fixture on the Sunday of an NRL-wide bye.
That was scrapped for last year’s series and the format has remained the same in 2024.
How to watch State of Origin: TV channel
All three 2024 Origin matches are being broadcast exclusively on Channel 9.
State of Origin Game 2 – Line UP and Details
| Position | Blues (#) | Maroons (#) |
|---|---|---|
| Fullback | Dylan Edwards (1) | Reece Walsh (1) |
| Winger | Brian To’o (2) | Xavier Coates (2) |
| Centre | Latrell Mitchell (3) | Valentine Holmes (3) |
| Centre | Stephen Crichton (4) | Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (4) |
| Winger | Zac Lomax (5) | Murray Taulagi (5) |
| Five-Eighth | Jarome Luai (6) | Tom Dearden (6) |
| Halfback | Mitchell Moses (7) | Daly Cherry-Evans (7) |
| Prop | Jake Trbojevic (8) | Reuben Cotter (8) |
| Hooker | Reece Robson (9) | Ben Hunt (9) |
| Prop | Payne Haas (10) | Lindsay Collins (10) |
| Second Row | Liam Martin (11) | Jaydn Su’A (11) |
| Second Row | Angus Crichton (12) | Jeremiah Nanai (12) |
| Lock | Cameron Murray (13) | Patrick Carrigan (13) |
Interchange:
| Blues (#) | Maroons (#) |
|---|---|
| Connor Watson (14) | Harry Grant (14) |
| Isaah Yeo (15) | Moeaki Fotuaika (15) |
| Moeaki Fotuaika (16)* | Haumole Olakau’atu (16) |
| Spencer Leniu (17) | Felise Kaufusi (17) |
Reserves:
| Blues (#) | Maroons (#) |
|---|---|
| Mitchell Barnett (18) | Dane Gagai (18) |
| Cameron McInnes (19) | Heilum Luki (19) |
| Heilum Luki (20)* | Trent Loiero (20) |
*Note: Moeaki Fotuaika appears on both the interchange and reserves list. It’s likely a mistake and he should only be listed on one.
Injuries:
| Blues | Maroons |
|---|---|
| Hudson Young | J’maine Hopgood |
| James Tedesco | Selwyn Cobbo |
| Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i | |
| Matt Burton | |
| Nicholas Hynes |
Match Officials:
| Position | Name |
|---|---|
| Referee | Ashley Klein |
| Touch Judge | Chris Sutton |
| Touch Judge | Dave Munro |
| Senior Review Official | Grant Atkins |
Preview of State of Origin Game 2
The stage is set for another fiery chapter in the State of Origin rivalry! After a thrilling opening encounter in Sydney, the series shifts to Melbourne for a crucial Game 2 on Wednesday, June 26th. Both the New South Wales Blues and Queensland Maroons will be desperate for a win to keep their series aspirations alive.
Key Points to Watch:
- Blues Offense vs. Maroons Defense: The Blues boast a potent attack led by the dazzling Latrell Mitchell and the speedster Brian To’o. Can they exploit weaknesses in the Queensland defense marshalled by the experienced Daly Cherry-Evans?
- Maroons Offense vs. Blues Defense: Valentine Holmes’ aerial skills and Xavier Coates’ blistering pace pose a constant threat. Can the Blues’ defensive line, anchored by Jake Trbojevic, contain them?
- Battle in the Middle: Expect a fierce fight for dominance. Payne Haas (Maroons) will aim to control the ruck, while Cameron Murray and Liam Martin (Blues) counter with experience and youthful energy.
- Impact of Injuries: Both sides have key players out. How the Blues cope without James Tedesco and the Maroons navigate the loss of Selwyn Cobbo will be crucial.
Intrigue and Passion:
This game goes beyond points on the board. It’s a battle for state pride. The MCG will be a sea of blue and maroon, with passionate fans roaring their teams on. This clash promises to be an unforgettable spectacle!
Predictions:
It’s too early to definitively predict a winner. Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, and the outcome could hinge on handling pressure and capitalizing on opportunities.
Here are some talking points to consider:
- Can the Blues maintain their home advantage momentum in Melbourne?
- Will the Maroons’ experience in hostile territory shine through?
- Who will step up and become the unlikely hero for their team?
Stay Tuned!
State of Origin Game 2 promises to be a heart-stopping clash. Buckle up, rugby league fans, and get ready for an epic battle!
