Australian Rugby League Considers New Zealand as State of Origin Host from 2027
In an exciting development for rugby league fans, the chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), Peter V’landys, has confirmed that New Zealand could potentially host a State of Origin game as early as 2027. V’landys stated that New Zealand is absolutely a consideration for a fixture between Queensland and New South Wales.
Although the Origin scheduling has already been set for the next three years, V’landys expressed his delight about the success of rugby league in New Zealand. The Warriors, who returned home after two years in Australia due to the COVID-19 pandemic, have had a remarkable season, igniting interest and cementing rugby league as a genuine threat to rugby union in New Zealand.
The ARLC’s internal research indicates that rugby league is gaining popularity in a nation that has long been obsessed with the All Blacks, New Zealand’s rugby union team. The resurgence of the Warriors this season, along with the success of the NRL Nines tournament at Auckland’s Eden Park from 2014 to 2017, has demonstrated the growing appeal of the sport in the country.
Aside from attracting fans, playing an Origin game in New Zealand would also hold appeal for NRL players with Kiwi heritage. Players such as Jarome Luai, Spencer Leniu, Kalyn Ponga, Reece Walsh, Jeremiah Nanai, and Moeaki Foutaika could have the opportunity to represent their respective teams on their home soil.
The idea of a New Zealand Origin game has received a heavyweight endorsement from legendary coach Wayne Bennett, who has been a strong advocate for growing rugby league globally. Bennett, who coached the Queensland Maroons to victory in six out of eight Origin series, believes that a game at Eden Park would be a sell-out. He highlighted the widespread interest and following of Origin amongst the All Blacks players themselves, emphasizing that there isn’t a Kiwi who doesn’t know about State of Origin.
The neutral venue format, introduced in recent years, has been successful in bringing Origin matches to different locations. The 2023 series opener took place in Adelaide, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground will host a game in 2024. Bennett praised this format, which allows fans outside of Brisbane and Sydney to experience the intensity and excitement of Origin.
While plans to hold an Origin game in New Zealand are still in the early stages, the enthusiasm from key figures in the rugby league community suggests that this could become a reality in the near future. A successful New Zealand Origin match would not only enhance the global appeal of rugby league but also cement rugby league’s position as a major sport in the country.
As discussions and considerations continue, fans of both rugby league and Origin will eagerly await further updates on the potential New Zealand-hosted match.
