Origin 2019 Game 1 Preview- Key Match-ups

Tonight’s game at Suncorp Stadium marks the start of the 2019 Holden State of Origin series. 

Picture Above: Rabbitohs team-mates Damien Cook (Left) and Dane Gagai (Right) go from mates to rivals ahead of tonight's State v State clash (Source: NRL)

Picture Above: Rabbitohs team-mates Damien Cook (Left) and Dane Gagai (Right) go from mates to rivals ahead of tonight's State v State clash (Source: NRL)

The series sees the young Blues look to retain the shield following last year’s 2-1 series win, while Queensland looks to a fresh group to reclaim the state’s former glory.

While both sides have strong squads, and incorporate many fresh faces, the match ups on field are something truly electric.

Fullbacks- James Tedesco (NSW) v Kalyn Ponga (QLD)

The battle of the fullbacks has always been something spectacular in the Origin Arena, and this year is no different. Newcastle fullback and Kiwi-Maori international Kalyn Ponga enters the arena for only his second game after coming off the bench in Game 3 of the 2018 series, as he replaces retiree Billy Slater. Ponga’s form at Newcastle has been exquisite, particularly in his partnership with Knights halfback Mitchell Pearce. The young gun has speed, agility and will provide a spark for Queensland’s attack.

On the other side, he faces up against arguably one of the best players in the game, James Tedesco. The Blues and Kangaroos incumbent returns for his 8^th Origin Game following impressive club form. The Roosters fullback had an extremely impressive 2018 campaign, taking the NSWRL Brad Fittler Medal for player of the series, and looks to continue this form in hopes of helping his side to a second series in a row. Tedesco’s attacking brilliance is complimented by his defensive efforts, as he pulls off some big try-savers.

Advantage: Blues

Centres- Latrell Mitchell (NSW) v Will Chambers (QLD)

The battle of the centres will be a big one as Roosters cult hero Latrell Mitchell faces off against Storm star Will Chambers in the arena of all arenas. These two have a historic battle and their passion for their teams comes out against each other. Latrell’s electric style of play makes him one of the best players in the game, and Chambers’ defence will need to be at its best to prevent a dangerous Mitchell form making any big moves. Chambers, however, has a strong combination with his Maroon backs and with just the right play, he can prove to be crucial.

Advantage: Undecided

Five-Eighth- Cody Walker (NSW) v Cameron Munster (QLD)

Storm star Cameron Munster returns to Origin this year as one of the Telstra Premiership season form players, while his opposing no. 6 is debutant and Rabbitohs hero Cody Walker. Munster’s form has minimal flaws, with his combination with Kalyn Ponga going to be crucial in producing something spectacular for the Maroons, while Walker will look to prove himself on debut, and causes some concern for the Maroons as he is known to pull through under pressure for his team.

Advantage: Maroons