Queensland's coach bats away questions about the notable absence of Brisbane's star fullback after seeing his side cough up a 20-point lead.

Queensland fans will be fuming. Even some NSW legends didn’t think the Maroons fullback should have been marched for a tackle on Tolu Koula. Christian Nicolussi

When the Blues needed heroes to get on top of the Maroons in State of Origin I, they turned to a debutante and the oldest player on the field.

Maroons great Darren Lockyer says the decision to send off Kalyn Ponga late in State of Origin will be hard to accept for Queenslanders.

The Blues leave it late, the Maroons finish with 12 players, while the bunker draws the ire of players, commentators and spectators alike. Here are five quick hits from State of Origin I.

With only one night to think about this game, Strange made every post a winner. And with one, final magical play, Tedesco justified his selection. Adrian Proszenko

Follow live coverage of the first game of the State of Origin series from Accor Stadium in Sydney. Stuff sports reporters

Former Maroon Jai Arrow is named as Queensland's honorary number 21 as teams are locked in for the 2026 State of Origin series opener in Sydney. Follow live.

Two genuine premiership contenders meet at CommBank Stadium in a clash that could carry major significance later in the season. Penrith enters the contest in ominous form, combining its trademark …

The post Penrith Panthers vs New Zealand Warriors Tips, Odds, Teams & Predictions – NRL Round 13 2026 first appeared on Sports News Australia.

North Queensland travels to Canberra with growing confidence after several impressive attacking displays, despite entering the contest as outsiders. Scott Drinkwater and Jake Clifford have combined effectively in recent weeks, …

The post Canberra Raiders vs North Queensland Cowboys Tips, Odds, Teams & Predictions – NRL Round 13 2026 first appeared on Sports News Australia.